For the assessment, students will choose one of several provided “simmersive” recordings of a short coaching session, accompanied by an interview transcript from a coach or player involved in that session. Using these materials, students will apply relevant psychological theory to explain a key observation from the scenario, drawing on qualitative analysis of both their observations and the transcript to support their interpretation. They will then design an evidence-informed psychological intervention aimed at enhancing the coach–athlete relationship highlighted in the session. The assessment concludes with a mock podcast interview, in which students take on the role of an applied sport psychology guest, discussing their analysis and proposed intervention as if they had been working directly with the team.

Formative assessment will form a key aspect of preparing students for their summative assessment. All students will receive a formative assessment opportunity as part of the module.

This module introduces students to key concepts in group dynamics and leadership within sport and exercise contexts.

* Core theories such as group cohesion, social identity theory, and both transactional and transformational leadership will be explored to develop an understanding of how groups function and how effective leaders shape performance, motivation, and adherence.

* Students will examine real-world challenges faced by teams and exercise groups and will gain experience in applying theory using qualitative research methods, including observational analysis and thematic interpretation.

* A central component of the module is a “simmersive” assessment in which students analyse a short coaching-session video and accompanying transcript, identifying psychological processes at play and drawing on theoretical frameworks to explain what they observe.

* Students will then propose evidence-informed interventions designed to address the issues identified, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and applied practice.

1. Analyse real world group dynamics and leadership behaviours in sport and exercise settings using key psychological theories

Learning Outcome: Knowledge and understanding, Reflection

2. Use qualitative methods to assess group interactions and propose evidence-informed interventions in applied sport and exercise settings.

Learning Outcome: Application and problem solving, Research skills

Learning in this module is designed to be immersive, applied, and varied. Students will engage with theoretical sessions that introduce core concepts in group dynamics and leadership, supported by case studies that bring these theories to life through real-world examples from sport and exercise settings. Practical seminars will provide opportunities to analyse group interactions, discuss leadership behaviours, and experiment with intervention ideas in a collaborative environment. In addition, dedicated qualitative research methods sessions will equip students with the observational, analytical and interpretive skills needed to evaluate complex group scenarios. Together, these learning strategies create a rich, interactive experience that supports both conceptual understanding and practical application.

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.

Slater, M. (2023). Advancing our understanding of leadership in sport and exercise: A social identity perspective.¿Psychology of Sport and Exercise,¿66, 102371.

Slater, M. J. (2019). Togetherness: How to build a winning team. Bennion Kearny

Haslam, S. A., Fransen, K., & Boen, F. (2020). The new psychology of sport and exercise: The social identity approach. Sage

Discover what really makes teams tick. This dynamic module dives into the psychology of groups and leadership in sport and exercise, exploring why some teams thrive while others fall apart. You’ll get hands-on with real coaching scenarios, using video and transcript analysis to uncover the subtle interactions that shape motivation, cohesion and performance. From social identity to transformational leadership, you’ll learn how the most effective coaches inspire and influence their groups and how evidence-based psychological principles can be used to create positive change. Perfect for anyone interested in coaching, sport science or exercise behaviour, this module blends cutting-edge theory with practical qualitative skills to develop your ability to understand, evaluate and improve real-world group environments.