Cottrell, S. (2003). The study skills handbook. Basingstoke, Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.
Gratton, C., & Jones, I. (2004). Research methods for sport studies. London: Routledge.
Kinnear, P. R., & Gray, C. D. (2007). SPSS 15 made simple. Hove, East Sussex: Psychology Press.
Thomas, J. R., & Nelson, J. K. (2005). Research methods in physical activity (4th ed.) Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

A group research project weighted at 50%, including an individual write up consisting of 1500 words, assessing learning outcomes 1 and 2.

An 800-word proposal, based on a pre-assigned research-informed rationale or a vocationally-relevant need, weighted at 40%, assessing learning outcomes 3 and 1.

Failure to pass the proposal AND have a signed supervisor agreement sheet downgrades the overall module grade to a GP1

A reflection on being involved in a research experiment, communicated using e-technology (10%), assessing learning outcome 4.

All elements of summative assessment MUST be passed to achieve an overall pass in this module.

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment:
Students will be provided with formative feedback through drafts of their work. Students will also receive group and 1-to-1 tutorials with their tutors to assist them in their group projects and in the development of their proposals.

Skills needed to conduct research in Sport and Exercise will be developed. These skills include: reviewing the research process (such as what makes a good research question, and accessing research literature); an appreciation of the ethical concerns involved with research, writing a research report; using quantitative and qualitative methodologies and statistical analyses (e.g. research design, sampling techniques, t tests, analysis of variance and non-parametric statistical analysis); using qualitative approaches (content analysis, ethnography, action research); and using appropriate software to analyse data and interpret output. Skills required for group work and independent study will also be developed, as well as skills in using e-technologies to share information and experiences. Although not assessed, the module will focus on career development in sport and exercise, as part of the PDP process.

Contact Hours: (24)
Lectures - 12 hours
Workshops/seminars - 12 hours

Independent Study Hours: (126)
Blackboard-supported activity - 20 hours
Researching - 50 hours
Data collection and analysis- 25 hours
Experiential learning - 10 hours
Writing assessments - 21 hours

Appropriately-equipped IT suite
Appropriate technical support for projects
Appropriately-equipped lecture room
Appropriately-equipped laboratories
Suitable soft/hardware to support e-technologies