Although several health benefits are associated with cycling, this mode of active transport remains underrepresented. Studies have shown that individuals' preferred mode of transport is influenced by the environment in which they travel. While macro-environmental factors shape active transport, micro-environmental aspects offer adaptable solutions. In this paper, we used novel and promising Virtual Reality (VR) technology to investigate which street characteristics regarding safety and attractiveness are important for promoting cycling for transport in three vulnerable groups in traffic, i.e., adolescents, adults with a low SES, and older adults. Participants cycled through two virtual streets based on existing streets in Ghent, Belgium. The think-aloud method was used to collect qualitative data during cycling and afterward participants were asked to fill in a questionnaire about the VR experience, self-reported cycling behavior, and sociodemographic factors. Transcribed files were analyzed using content analysis, revealing 14 crucial street characteristics. Separate cycling paths, clear markings and traffic signs, even surfaces, calm streets, spacious layouts, and aesthetically pleasing environments were found to be important by all target groups. Adolescents and older adults emphasized slower traffic, visibility, wider cycle paths, high curbs, and sudden unexpected actions. Secure bicycle parking was crucial for adolescents, while older adults valued green environments and had mixed opinions on traffic-calming structures. This study underscores the significance of micro-scale street features in promoting active transport among vulnerable groups. Additionally, it demonstrates the potential of VR for inclusive urban design and citizen-based science.

中文翻译：

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哪些街道特征支持交通中弱势群体骑自行车出行：虚拟现实中的有声思考研究


尽管骑自行车对健康有多种好处，但这种主动交通方式的代表性仍然不足。研究表明，个人偏好的交通方式受到其出行环境的影响。虽然宏观环境因素影响主动运输，但微观环境因素提供了适应性强的解决方案。在本文中，我们使用新颖且有前途的虚拟现实（VR）技术来调查哪些街道的安全性和吸引力特征对于促进交通中三个弱势群体（即青少年、社会经济地位低的成年人和老年人）的自行车交通非常重要。成年人。参与者骑自行车穿过两条基于比利时根特现有街道的虚拟街道。使用出声思考方法收集骑行过程中的定性数据，然后要求参与者填写一份有关 VR 体验、自我报告的骑行行为和社会人口因素的调查问卷。使用内容分析对转录文件进行分析，揭示 14 个关键街道特征。所有目标群体都发现，独立的自行车道、清晰的标记和交通标志、平坦的路面、平静的街道、宽敞的布局和美观的环境都很重要。青少年和老年人强调缓慢的交通、能见度、更宽的自行车道、高路缘和突然的意外行为。安全的自行车停放对青少年至关重要，而老年人则重视绿色环境，并对交通稳定结构持有不同意见。这项研究强调了微观街道特征对于促进弱势群体积极交通的重要性。此外，它还展示了 VR 在包容性城市设计和以公民为基础的科学方面的潜力。