This module serves to provide an introduction to the role of the sports scientist in providing support for competitive sportspeople. This includes the roles of the physiologist, psychologist, nutritionist and biomechanist but also extends to the sports therapist, physiotherapist, podiatrist, match analyst etceteras. Basic fundamental knowledge of sport and exercise physiology, nutrition, psychology and biomechanics will be covered, as they apply in the scientific testing and monitoring of sports performance.

The module will cover aspects of laboratory and field testing of sports performance, the role of the sports scientist in individual and team sports, the importance of calibration, accuracy, reliability and specificity of testing. How to use scientific testing results to support the sportsperson in developing and improving their performance will be discussed. Communication of results to performers will be considered.

There will be FOUR pieces of summative assessment

1) A 1500 word Laborartory portfolio that demonstrates knowledge and understanding based on 4 out of the possible 7 laboratory experiences worth 40% of the overall grade and assessing LO's 1 and 2

2) 3 X 30 minute unseen class tests each worth 20% of the overall module grade:
1st Class test length .5 HOURS weighted at 20% (assessing LO 3)
2nd Class test length .5 HOURS weighted at 20% (assessing LO 5)
3rd Class test length .5 HOURS weighted at 20% (assessing LO 4)

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment:
Formative feedback on knowledge and understanding will be a regular feature of workshop sessions where field and laboratory testing will be taking place. Students will undertake formative oral presentations of their reports before submission of the summative assessment.

Lectures - 24 x 1 hour
Labs - 24 x 2 hours

A large proportion of this module involves practical work. Students will be expected to select appropriate physical tests and administer these tests according to set protocols. Also, to able to provide a basic interpretation of the results.

Independent Study Hours:
48 hours of reading to support lectures.
24 hours of literature searching and reading to support the laboratory and field testing.
24 hours preparation for formative assessment.
48 hours preparation for summative assignments
84 hours student led independent study...including internet searching and reading, library searching and reading plus observing sports scientists at sporting events (Match analysis, physiotherapists, sports therapists, psychologists etceteras)

228 hours total

Beashel, P. & Taylor, J (1999) Advanced studies in physical education and sport. Nelson Thornes Ltd.
Thatcher, J, Thatcher, R., Day, M, Portas, M. & Hood, S. (2009) Sport and exercise science. Learning Matters.
Wilmore, J. H., Costill, D. L., & Kenney, W. L. (2008). Physiology of sport and exercise. (4th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Access to website such as :-
Peak Performance (http://www.pponline.co.uk/)
Brianmac Sports Coach (http://www.brianmac.co.uk/)

Appropriately equipped laboratory with adequate technical support and: -
Diet analysis software
Cycle ergometers
Treadmill
Wingate software
Gas analysis software
Stadiometer, weighing scales, bioelectrical impedance analysis software
Electronic timing gates
Astroturf, sportshall
OHP and white board.
Appropriately equipped lecture theatre with access to an OHP / Powerpoint facility
Access to Blackboard

No Special Admission Requirements