Datafication of cycling: tensions between cycling policy and mobility justice - ESRC PostDoc Fellowship Shaun Williams

This Fellowship consolidates doctoral research on the ESRC-funded project entitled: Datafication of cycling: tensions between cycling policy and mobility justice. During my doctoral research training, I developed an original understanding of how datafication processes, such as the collection, processing, and sharing of big data generated by smart devices, influence the delivery of cycling policy plans. By focusing on fitness and data generated by fitness apps, such as Strava, I showed how administrations including Transport for London (TfL, UK) and the Oregon Department of Transport (ODOT, USA) have made use of data to support transportation policy ambitions. These data are recognised to capture cycling journeys recorded by younger males for commuting and recreational purposes. Despite academic interest in exploring the statistical representativeness of Strava Metro samples compared to observable data such as cycle counters, there were no critical reflections on applied uses of Strava Metro as a source to evaluate policy. In response to this research gap, I critically analysed cycling policy plans and semi-structured interviews, with data scientists and researchers, at TfL and ODOT.

The findings of this research demonstrated how the evaluation of Strava Metro data at public administrations to support policy ambitions unfairly privilege people who are already highly mobile, and who may cycle out of choice, not necessity. By synthesising theories of mobility and data justice, with critical scholarship from mobilities, critical data studies, and public policy, I showed how Strava Metro data analyses exacerbates existing social injustices associated with the privileging of efficiency and individual freedom over diversity. Left unchecked, I argued that cycling, for all its environmentally sustainable credentials, will remain unsustainable. To move toward more egalitarian and mobility just futures, I argued that cycling policies must start with an ethical imperative to support inclusive cycling, rather than remain primarily fixated on increasing cycling mode share.

Whilst the doctoral research illustrated there are profound ramifications for transportation policy, the work also speaks to wider audiences beyond a narrow sphere of active travel policy enthusiasts, including public health professionals, data scientists, and critical data researchers. To amplify the impact of my research, this Fellowship will focus primarily on the drafting and publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts across a range of critical social sciences. Specifically, three manuscripts will be drafted and submitted to the following journals: Mobilities, The Journal of Transport Geography, and Big Data & Society. To communicate effectively with multiple academic audiences, I have developed a detailed research strategy and workplan. This workplan has been developed with support and guidance from Professor Peter Merriman, an established and leading geographer with over 90 journal articles and book chapters. By establishing a strong record of publications within internationally renowned journals, this Postdoctoral Fellowship will serve as a major steppingstone toward an academic career as a critically engaged, multidisciplinary geographer.