Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

The combined effect of information and experience on drivers’ route-choice behavior

  • Published:
Transportation Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Advanced travel information systems (ATIS) are designed to provide real time information enabling drivers to choose efficiently among routes and save travel time. Psychological research suggests that route-choice models can be improved by adding realistic behavioral assumptions. However, different generalizations imply deviations in different directions. Specifically, different choices arise when decisions are taken on the basis of information compared to those taken on the basis of personal experience. An experimental study of route choices investigates the combined effects of information and experience on route choice decisions in a simulated environment whereby the participants can rely on a description of travel time variability and at the same time can rely also on personal experience through feedback. The experiment consisted of a simple two route network, one route on average faster than the other with three traffic scenarios representing different travel time ranges. Respondents were divided to two groups: with real-time information and without. Both groups received feedback information of their actual travel time. During the experiment, participants chose repeatedly between the routes and across scenarios. The results show that effect of information is positive and more evident when participants lack long-term experience on the distributions of travel times. Furthermore, information seems to increase initial risk seeking behavior, reduce initial exploration and contribute to between subject differences. These findings have implications for cost-effective ATIS design especially in the conditions characterized by non-recurrent congestion.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • Abdel-Aty, M., Abdallah, M.H.: Modeling drivers’ diversion from normal routes under ATIS using generalized estimating equations and binomial probit link function. Transportation 31(3), 327–348 (2004)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Abdel-Aty, M., Kitamura, R., Jovanis, P.: Using stated preferences data for studying the effect of advanced traffic information on drivers’ route choice. Transp. Res. C 5(1), 39–50 (1997)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Avineri, E., Prashker, J.N.: Sensitivity to uncertainty: the need for a paradigm shift. Transp. Res. Rec. 1854, 90–98 (2003)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Avineri, E., Prashker, J.N.: The impact of travel time information on travelers’ learning under uncertainty. Transportation 33(4), 393–408 (2006)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Barron, G., Erev, I.: Small feedback-based decisions and their limited correspondence to description-based decisions. J. Behav. Decis. Mak. 16(3), 215–233 (2003)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bekhor, S., Prashker, J.: Stochastic user equilibrium formulation for the generalized nested logit model. Transp. Res. Rec. 1752, 84–90 (2001)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bekhor, S., Ben-Akiva, M., Ramming, M.S.: Adaptation of logit kernel to route choice situation. Transp. Res. Rec. 1805, 78–85 (2002)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ben Akiva, M., Lerman, S.R.: Discrete Choice Analysis: Theory and Application in Travel Demand. MIT Press, Cambridge, Mass (1985)

    Google Scholar 

  • Ben- Akiva, M., Bolduc, D.: Multinomial probit with a logit kernel and a general parametric specification of the covariance structure. Working Paper (1996)

  • Ben-Akiva, M., Bierlaire, M.: Discrete choice methods and their applications to short term travel decisions. In: Hall, W. (ed.) Handbook of Transportation Science, pp. 5–33. Kluwer, Dordrech (1999)

    Google Scholar 

  • Bonsall, P., Firmin, P., Anderson, M., Plamer, I.: Validating the results of a route choice simulator. Transp. Res. C 5(6), 371–387 (1997)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bonsall, P.: Information systems and other intelligent transport system innovations. In: Hensher, D.A., Button, K.J. (eds.) Handbook of Transport Modelling. Pergamon, New York (2000)

    Google Scholar 

  • Busemeyer, J.R., Townsend, J.T.: Decision field theory: a dynamic- cognitive approach to decision making in an uncertain environment. Psychol. Rev. 100(3), 432–459 (1993)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cascetta, E., Papola, A.: Implicit availability/perception logit models for route choice in transportation networks. Paper presented at the 8th World Conference On Transport Research, Antwerp, Belgium (1998)

  • Cascetta, E., Nuzzolo, A., Russo, F., Vitetta, A.: A modified logit route choice model overcoming path overlapping problems: specification and some calibration results for interurban networks. In: Lesort, J.B. (eds.) Proceedings of the International Symposium on Transportation and Traffic Theory, Lyon, pp. 697–711 (1996)

  • Chu, C.: A paired combinatorial logit model for travel demand analysis, In: Proceedings of the 5th World Conference on Transportation Research, vol. 4, pp. 295–309. Western Periodicals Co, Ventura, CA (1989)

  • Daganzo, C.F., Sheffi, Y.: On stochastic models of traffic assignment. Transp. Sci. 11, 253–274 (1977)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Deakin, A.K.: Potential of procedural knowledge to enhance advanced traveler information systems. Transp. Res. Rec. 1573, 35–43 (1997)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Denrell, J.: Adaptive learning and risk taking. Psychol Rev. 114(1), 177–187 (2007)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Denrell, J., March, J.G.: Adaptation as information restriction: the hot stove effect. Organ. Sci. 12(5), 523–538 (2001)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Erev, I., Barron, G.: On adaptation, maximization and reinforcement learning among cognitive strategies. Psychol. Rev. 112(4), 912–931 (2005)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fujii, S., Kitamura, R.: Anticipated travel time, information acquisition and actual experience: Hanshin expressway route closure, Osaka-Sakai, Japan. Transp. Res. Rec. 1725, 79–85 (2000)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gärling, T.: Behavioural assumptions overlooked in travel-choice modeling. In: de Ortuzar, J.D., Hensher, D., Jara-Diaz, S. (eds.) Travel Behavior Research: Updating the State of Play. Pergamon-Elsevier, Oxford, UK (1998)

    Google Scholar 

  • Gärling, T., Young, W.: Perspectives on travel behavior: decision paradigms. In: Hensher, D. (ed.) Travel Behavior Research – The Leading Edge. Pergamon-Elesevier, Oxford, UK (2001)

    Google Scholar 

  • Gliebe, J.P., Koppelman, F.S., Ziliaskopoulos, A.: Route choice using a paired combinatorial logit model. Paper presented at the 78th Meeting of the Transportation Research Board, Washington DC (1999)

  • Girden, E.R.: Anova Repeated Measures, Quantitative Applications in the Social Sciences No 84, Sage, London (1992)

  • Horowitz, J.L.: The stability of stochastic equilibrium in a two-link transportation network. Transp. Res. B 18, 13–28 (1984)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Huynh, H., Feldt, L.S.: Conditions under which mean square ratios in repeated measurements designs have exact F distributions. J. Am. Stat. Assoc. 65, 1582–1589 (1970)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Huynh, H., Feldt, L.S.: Estimation of the box correction for degrees of freedom from sample data in randomized block and split-plot designs. J. Edu. Stat. 1, 69–82 (1976)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kahneman, D., Tversky, A.: Prospect theory – an analysis of decision under risk. Econometrica 47(2), 263–291 (1979)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kahneman, D., Tversky, A.: Choices values and frames. Am. Psychol. 39(4), 341–350 (1984)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Katsikopulos, K.V., Duse-Anthony, Y., Fisher, D.L., Duffy, S.A.: Risk attitude reversals in drivers’ route choice when range of travel time information is provided. Hum. Factors 44(3), 466–473 (2002)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Khattak, A.J., Khattak, A.J.: Comparative analysis of spatial knowledge and en route diversion behavior in Chicago and San Francisco – Implications for advanced traveler information systems. Transp. Res. Rec. 1621, 27–35 (1996)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kraan, M., van-der -Zijpp, N., Tutert, B., Vonk, T., van-Megen, D.: Evaluating networkwide effects of variable message signs in the Netherlands. Transp. Res. Rec. 1689, 60–66 (1999)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Levin, I.: Relating Statistics and Experimental Design – An Introduction, Quantitative Applications in the Social Sciences No 125, Sage, London (1998)

  • Lomax, T., Schrank, D.: 2002 Urban Mobility Study, Texas Transportation Institute (2003)

  • Lotan, T.: Models for route choice behavior in the presence of information using concepts form fuzzy set theory and approximate reasoning. Transportation 20(2), 129–155 (1993)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mahmassani, H., Liu, Y.: Dynamics of commuting decision behavior under advanced traveler information systems. Transp. Res. C 7(2), 91–107 (1998)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • McFadden, D.: Modeling the choice of residential location. In: Karlqvist, A., Lundquist, L., Snickkars, F., Weibull, J. (eds.) Spatial Interaction Theory and Residential Location, pp. 75–96. Amsterdam, North Holland (1978)

    Google Scholar 

  • McFadden, D., Train, K.: Mixed MNL models of discrete response. J. Appl. Eco. 15(5), 447–470 (2000)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Myers, J.L., Sadler, E.: Effects of range of payoffs as a variable in risk taking. J. Exp. Psychol. 60, 306–309 (1960)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nakayama, S., Kitamura, R., Fujii, S.: Drivers learning and network behavior: dynamic analysis of the driver-network system as a complex system. Transp. Res. Rec. 1676, 30–36 (1999)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nakayama, S., Kitamura, R.: Route choice model with inductive learning. Transp. Res. Rec. 1725, 63–70 (2000)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nakayama, S., Kitamura, R., Fujii, S.: Drivers route choice rules and network behavior: do drivers become rational and homogeneous through learning. Transp. Res. Rec. 1752, 62–68 (2001)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Peeta, S., Ramos, J.L., Pasupathy, R.: Content of variable message signs and on-line driver behavior. Transp. Res. Rec. 1725, 102–108 (2000)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Peeta, S., Yu, J.W.: A hybrid model for driver route choices incorporating en-route attributes and real-time information effects. Networks Spatial Econ. 5(1), 21–40 (2005)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Prashker, J., Bekhor, S.: Route choice models used in the stochastic user equilibrium problem: A review. Transp. Rev. 24(4), 437–463 (2004)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Prashker, J.N., Bekhor, S.: Investigation of stochastic network loading procedures. Transp. Res. Rec. 1645, 94–102 (1998)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Simon, H.: Models of Bounded Rationality. MIT Press, Cambridge Mass (1982)

    Google Scholar 

  • Srinivasan, K.K., Mahmassani, H.S.: Role of congestion and information in tripmakers’ dynamic decision processes: an experimental investigation. Transp. Res. Rec. 1676, 43–52 (1999)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Thorndike, E.L.: Animal intelligence: an experimental study of the associative processes in animals. Psychol. Monogr. 2, 4 (1898)

    Google Scholar 

  • Tong, C.C.: A study of en-route dynamic route choice behavior under the influence of traffic information, In: Proceedings of the 7th World Congress on Intelligent Systems, Held Turin, Italy, 6–9 November, 2000, 8 p (2000)

  • Tversky, A., Kahneman D.: Judgment under uncertainty: heuristics and biases. Science 185, 1124–1130 (1974)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tversky, A., Kahneman, D.: The framing of decisions and the psychology of choice. Science 211, 453–458 (1981)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tversky, A., Kahneman, D.: Advances in prospect theory – cumulative representation of uncertainty. J. Risk Uncertain. 5, 297–323 (1992)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Vovsha, P.: The cross-nested logit model: application to mode choice in the Tel-Aviv metropolitan area. Transp. Res. Rec. 1607, 6–15 (1997)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Vovsha, P., Bekhor, S.: The link-nested logit model of route choice: overcoming the route overlapping problem. Transp. Res. Rec. 1645, 133–148 (1998)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Watling, T.R., Van Vuren, T.: The modeling of dynamic route guidance systems. Transp. Res. C 1(2), 159–182 (1993)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wardman, M., Bonsall, P.W., Shires J.D.: Driver response to variable message signs: a stated preference investigation. Transp. Res. C. 12(5), 389–405 (1997)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wen, C., Koppelman, F.: The generalized nested logit model. Transp. Res. B: Methodol. 35(7), 627–641 (2001)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wong-Wing, G.: Driver attitudes towards display formats of real-time traffic information systems. Transp. Plan. Technol. 21, 1–19 (1999)

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Merav Ben-Elia (Software Engineer) for her candid assistance in developing the computer VBA code. Thanks also to Dana Dahan from the Max Wertheimer Minerva center for Cognitive Research for her assistance in carrying out the experiment. Finally, the comments provided by two anonymous reviewers are also much appreciated.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, Haifa, 32000, Israel

    Eran Ben-Elia & Yoram Shiftan

  2. Faculty of Industrial Engineering & Management, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, Haifa, 32000, Israel

    Ido Erev

Authors
  1. Eran Ben-Elia
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Ido Erev
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Yoram Shiftan
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Yoram Shiftan.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Ben-Elia, E., Erev, I. & Shiftan, Y. The combined effect of information and experience on drivers’ route-choice behavior. Transportation 35, 165–177 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11116-007-9143-7

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11116-007-9143-7

Keywords

Search

Navigation