ROLE OF OUTREACH ACTIVITIES IN TRANSPORTATION EDUCATION

In order to respond to the educational needs of transportation professionals, transportation operators, and the general public, an outreach program has been established within the University of Wisconsin system. The program, operated by the university's Office of Statewide Transportation Programs (OSTP), brings the expertise of the university to the community to aid in the solution of pressing transportation problems. The program is modeled after the county agricultural extension service, the agents of which form a bridge between the university and the agricultural industry. Two major aspects of the program involve (a) formal short courses, seminars, conferences, and workshops and (b) informal one-to-one assistance. Experience since the establishment of OSTP in 1976 has shown that universities that have a transportation faculty can fulfill an important educational function that is not covered by traditional course offerings and degree programs.