The Developing Research Skills in Sport and Exercise module is designed to ensure you learn the research methods used as part of research projects. You will engage with quantitative and qualitative research designs and data collection methods, tackle issues of validity and reliability, and acquire knowledge of sampling, ethics and data analysis. The module will also enable you to participate in a research project and to reflect on that process, applying their knowledge and understanding of research methods acquired throughout the module.

1) Participation in a research project, evidenced with a research participation form signed by lead researcher. This element of assessment will be awarded as pass or fail based on the students participation in a research project.

2) A 10 minute individual presentation that reflects on participation in a research project. In doing so, you will reflect alongside peers on the research process, the uses and applications of quantitative and qualitative methods, ethical considerations, sampling techniques, validity and reliability issues and data analyses techniques. Weighted at 100% of the overall module mark assessing LOs 1 and 2.

This module contains a combination of face to face, blended learning and personal tutoring. 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 independent study will be required. This may include reading around module topics, discussion-based activities or investigating current theory and practice associated with the module. Student led independent study will be required specifically for assessment preparation.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of research processes, quantitative and qualitative research designs and analyses in sport and exercise settings.

2. Reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of quantitative and qualitative research methods and their application in a peer research project.

Appropriately and adequately equipped lecture theatre or seminar room.

Access to IT resources

Library resources

Gratton, C., & Jones, I. (2014). Research methods for sports studies. 3rd Edition. London: Routledge.

Sparkes, A. C., & Smith, B. (2014). Qualitative research methods in sport, exercise and health: From process to product. Oxon: Routledge.

Armour, K. & Macdonald, D. (2012). Research methods in physical education and youth sport. London: Routledge.

You will develop your understanding of planning a research project and developing research questions. You will explore quantitative research methods and analysis, interpret and represent data as well as exploring qualitative research methods. You will then reflect on these approaches following participation in a research project, giving you the opportunity to apply your research knowledge and develop your research skills in a variety of sport employment settings.