The module will be delivered via Blackboard & is organised around 8 topics delivered sequentially over 9 weeks.
These topics are: 1. Conceptualising coaching & the coaching process. 2. Fundamentals of good practice within coaching. 3. Developing as a reflective practitioner. 4. Ethical Issues & Coaching. 5. The coach - athlete relationship - A traditional perspective. 6. An empowerment approach to coaching. 7. A sociological approach to coaching. 8. Coach education issues.


Each activity will commence with tutor developed introductory material using a range of formats including multimedia appropriate to the topic area. This material will then be followed by a series of weekly tasks that will deliver the learning outcomes of the activity. These tasks will be carried out individually or as part of a small group. The assessment of the module will allow you to demonstrate understanding & critical analysis skills via content & task related activities drawn from within the above module topic areas.

Course textbooks and learning materials as suggested.
Suitable computer with internet access (specifically to the University server and Blackboard) as detailed in the
Award Handbook.

VHS Video playback facilities.

Additional Assessment Information:
Students will be required to complete 2 pieces of summative assessment.

1. A 1200 word essay ( Assesses LOS 1, 2 & 3) worth 30% of the module grade.
2. A 2500 word portfolio (Assesses LOS 4, 5, 6 & 7) worth 70% of the module grade.

Students will be provided with formative assessment & feedback via on-line tasks & discussions.

Cassidy, T., Jones, R., & Potrac, P. (2004). Understanding sports coaching. The social, cultural and pedagogical foundations of coaching practice. London: Routledge. (ISBN: 0-415-30740-6)

Lyle, J. (2002). Sports coaching concepts. A framework for coaches` behaviour. London: Routledge. (ISBN: 0-415-26158-9)

This module focuses on the development of a critical understanding of proven best practice coaching behaviours & the application of these as utilised by established coaching practitioners with athletes of various ability levels. The module will initially consider the conceptualisation of coaching & the coaching process. Established best practice coaching methods will then be critically reviewed. The concept of continuing professional development of the coach by the development of a self reflective style on coaching performance will also be explored together with coaches developing a more critical & questioning approach to ethical issues that surround coaching. The coach-athlete relationship will be examined particularly from a psychosocial perspective. Contemporary developments surrounding empowerment of the athlete approaches within the coaching process will be critically evaluated. Finally contemporary coach education issues will be investigated.