Smart Devices and Travel Time Use by Bus Passengers in Vancouver, Canada

This research investigates the usage of smart devices and time at bus stops and on buses in Vancouver, Canada. Using passive observations and self-reported surveys mainly from college students, the majority of passengers were found to use their travel time actively. Most of the observed active activities are associated with the usage of smart devices. However, while the possession of smart devices is prevalent, less than one-third of passengers used them during travel. A variety of environmental and trip factors, personal attributes, and past experiences influence the usage of smart devices. Research also found that smart devices encourage multitasking.