This module gives the learner the opportunity to (1) know and analyse research methodologies and an appreciation of the need to appraise research evidence in relation to professional practice in sports development and coaching. (2) develop a sport proposal with clear aims and objectives and select an appropriate method of investigation in relation to sport. (3) investigate a current issue related to sports development and coaching in the context of a contemporary environment and (4) reflect on how completing the work-based learning investigation has contributed to your academic development and ability. The foundations with the module will give learners an opportunity to develop an understanding of research based decision making in relation to coaching and sports development opportunities.

Teaching will include;
- Research methodologies
- Ethical concerns when researching
- Appropriate research design
- Data collection and analysis
- Develop skills in accessing and evaluating research materials in order to inform academic writing and practice
- Develop skills in writing within an academic context

The module will culminate in the completion of a small scale research project in agreement and with support of your module leader.

During this module students will complete small scale vocationally relevant projects allowing them to demonstrate developing work based knowledge and skills. This will be outside of normal contact hours and will be largely independently driven work.

Students will follow a thirty week guided study programme and access support material via the college VLE. The module will consist of 3 hours per week.

The module will include:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (90 hours) (3 hours X 30 weeks)
2 hours taught
1 hour seminar discussion per week

Guided Independent Study(210 hours)
60 hours background reading
60 hours assessment planning
90 hours assessment writing

Project Proposal - Presentation (10 - 15 minutes) - 50% (assesses LO's 1 and 2)

A proposal for an investigation into a specific area of sports development and/or coaching. This proposal should include; working title, literature review, proposed aims and objectives, proposed methodology of choice and ethical concerns.

Report - 1500 words - 50% (assesses LO 3)

Part 1
A report detailing the aim of the investigation, a review of literature, key findings and recommendations. (1,500 words)

You will also be required to complete a 500 word reflective report, this is weighted at 0%, assesses LO 4 and must be submitted.

The reflective statement addressing how completing the investigation has contributed to your academic development, reflecting and evaluating on your own academic skills (500 words)

All elements of assessment must be passed.

Throughout the module, students will complete a small academic skills portfolio as a form of formative assessment to develop academic related skills.

All elements of assessment, including any reflective work, must be supported by references to appropriate literature and referenced according to appropriate academic conventions within APA style.

Access to an appropriately specified PC, with accompanying Word, PowerPoint, Adobe and Java software
Access to Journal Articles
Access to Text Books

Bell J (2005) Doing Your Research Project. London: Open University Press.
Gratton, C. and Jones, S. (2009) Research Methods for Sport Studies. London: Routledge.
Magdalinski, T. (2013). Study Skills for Sports Studies. London: Routledge.
Smith, A. And Waddington, I. (2013). Doing Small World Research in Sports Studies. London: Routledge.