Understanding the synergies among factors shaping parents' intention to use walking school buses

Abstract Walking School Bus (WSB) programmes offer a promising approach to promoting active school travel (AST). However, there is limited consensus on how shifts from conventional travel modes to WSB will unfold. Existing AST research has examined determinants of walking and cycling, but relatively little attention has been given to WSB and similar emerging modes. This study addresses this gap by developing the Intended Mode Choice Adoption (IMCA) framework to examine the combined effects of behavioural, contextual, and socio-demographic factors on parental intentions. Survey data from 192 parents in Bradford, UK, were analysed. Results indicate that perceived behavioural control and subjective norms toward WSB, attitudes toward active travel, and satisfaction with existing travel arrangements are key determinants of parental intention to switch to WSB. These factors are influenced by distance, escorting patterns, household, and parental attributes. The findings highlight the importance of integrating behavioural constructs across both conventional and emerging modes.