This module introduces you to study skills and the key aspects of research methods.

In the Study Skills section of this module you will be introduced to the skills which will enable you to be an effective student in a Higher Education environment. These include learning Time Management Skills, Secondary Research Techniques (such as Locating Secondary Sources, Academic Reading, Referencing). You will also learn Essay Writing Techniques, Presentation Skills, Revision Skills and examination techniques.

In the research methods section of this module you will study a variety of issues relating to research in sport. Different research methods will be looked at, as well as different ways of collecting data and basic analysis. You will be asked to produce a small scale data collection report, demonstrating your research skills and ability to plan, carry out and discuss findings on an area of sport. Support will be available throughout the process and students will be encouraged to carry out their research within the group or their families to remove the necessity for ethical clearance. Instruction re ensuring confidentiality of personal data will be included.

Cottrell, S (2008) Study Skills Handbook, Third Edition, Palgrave Study Guide, London
Dawson, C (2007) A Practical Guide to Research Methods, How to Books Ltd, London
Gratton, C. and Jones, I. (2004) Research Methods for Sports Studies. London: Routledge
Northedge, A (2005) A Good Study Guide, Open University, England
Thomas J.R. & Nelson, J. K. (2005) Research Methods for Physical Education. Leeds: Human Kinetics.
Walsh, M (2001) Research Made Real (A Guide for Students) Nelson Thorne, London

www.staffs.ac.uk/ask/index.php
www.skills4study.com

Lap top/projector
Internet
Handouts

No special admissions requirements

All elements must be passed.
Undertake a PRESENTATION OF INITIAL PROPOSAL (weighted at 25%) and a small scale DATA COLLECTION REPORT (weighted at 75%).

ASSESSMENT

Presentation of initial proposal

An individual (5 minute) presentation within a small group (or to a small group, within the context of Sport) on the introduction, literature review and method for the data collection report. Demonstrating the individual's ability to use and locate secondary sources, provide justification for the study and use audio/visual and IT equipment in order to present material. General presentation skills will be assessed.( learning outcomes 1, 2) Assessment weighting 25%




Data Collection Report
You will be required to undertake a small scale data collection report about an area of Sport. Your topic choice will be negotiated with your tutor.
The investigation will be around 1,500 words and will be written to include results, discussion, references, and appendices. (Learning outcome 1 & 3). Assessment weighting 75%.


Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Students will be expected to show draft work to the subject tutor, during the preparation of assignments in order to receive constructive feedback.

This module contains a combination of face to face and blended learning. Lectures and seminars will be interactive and require full participation. Some seminars will be student led and facilitated by the lecturer.Independent study tasks will be set but further idependant study will be required. This may include reading around module topics, discussion based activities or investigating current theory and practice associated wth the module. Student led independant study will be required specifcally for assessment preparation.