Students will work in small groups and be randomly assigned one of the psychological topics covered within the module on which to base a mini experiment. Drawing on their understanding of the assigned topic, students will collaboratively design and conduct a relevant study during seminars, making informed methodological decisions regarding research design and implementation. Each student will then individually deliver a 10-minute presentation communicating their research study, including an overview of the psychological topic, an explanation of key methodological decisions and results, and a reflection on what the findings contribute to the wider topic area. Presentations will be supported by PowerPoint slides, and the use of cue cards will be permitted. This assessment develops key employability skills such as teamwork, research design, data interpretation, and professional communication, transferable to careers in sport, exercise, health, and related fields.

* This module introduces key theories and concepts in sport and exercise psychology, providing a foundation for understanding the psychological factors that influence performance, participation, and wellbeing in sport and physical activity contexts.

* Core topics include motivation and self-determination theory, self-efficacy, personality and individual differences, stress, anxiety and arousal, group dynamics and leadership, and behaviour change models.

* Students will explore how these theories apply to real-world sport and exercise settings, and how psychological principles can inform interventions aimed at enhancing performance, adherence, and enjoyment.

* Alongside theoretical study, the module will develop students’ research skills through an introduction to research design and methodological considerations, including experimental and non-experimental approaches, control groups, randomisation, blinding, and ethical practice.

* Students will apply this knowledge by planning and conducting a small-scale mock research study on a chosen psychological topic, culminating in the creation and delivery of an academic research presentation.

1. Apply key theories and concepts in sport and exercise psychology to demonstrate contemporary knowledge and an understanding of behaviour, performance, and participation within sport and exercise settings.

Learning Outcome: Knowledge & Understanding, Application & Problem solving

2. Design, conduct, and communicate a small-scale mock research study that investigates a psychological concept in sport or exercise, demonstrating appropriate methodological choices, problem-solving, and reflection on the research process.

Learning Outcome: Research Skills, Communication

Teaching and learning will combine lectures and webinars to introduce and explore key theories and concepts in sport and exercise psychology. Lectures will provide the core theoretical framework, while seminars will offer opportunities for discussion, practical tasks, and problem-based learning activities designed to deepen understanding of psychological principles. Real-life case studies will be used to encourage students to apply theory to authentic sport and exercise contexts, enhancing their analytical and reflective skills. Practical webinar sessions will include the design and implementation of miniature studies based on the topics covered, alongside focused sessions on research methods and ethical considerations. Students will also engage in independent learning to further develop their research ideas, refine methodological approaches, and prepare and rehearse their individual presentations.

Access to an appropriate PC, with accompanying software including Office 365 (MS Teams, One-Drive, Word, PowerPoint et al.), Adobe, and JAMOVI.

Access to appropriate reading materials, which can be accesses through the University of Staffordshire library resource page for sport and Exercise.

Weinberg, R.S. and Gould, D. (2015) Foundations of sport and exercise psychology. 8th ed. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Martin, R., & Wrisberg, C. A. (2017).¿Research methods in applied sport psychology: A practical guide¿(2nd ed.).¿Human Kinetics.

Discover what drives performance, participation, and wellbeing in sport and exercise. This module introduces you to the key psychological theories that shape how athletes, coaches, and exercisers think, feel, and perform, from motivation and confidence to stress, anxiety, leadership, and team dynamics. You’ll explore how behaviour change and mindset can influence sporting success and healthy lifestyles, while gaining hands-on experience in research design. By the end of the module, you’ll have planned and presented your own mini research project, developing practical skills in investigation, analysis, and communication that are essential for further study or a future career in sport, exercise, and health.