1. A 2000 word essay that is worth 40% of the module grade. Students will be required to critically discuss the value of using best practice coaching behaviours to help develop athletes to their full potential. (Assesses LO 1).

2. A 3000 word portfolio that is worth 60% of the module grade. Students will be required to respond to three questions which will examine their critical understanding of selected contemporary coaching topics investigated within the module. (Assesses LOS 2 and 3).

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):
Students will receive formative feedback throughout the module comprising of a combination of task related feedback and also comments directed through discussion boards during the course of the delivery of the module.

This module initially aims to develop a critical understanding of best practice coaching behaviours and the application of these as utilised by established coaching practitioners with athletes of various ability levels.

The module then seeks to develop a critical understanding of various contemporary topics within sports coaching. Current topical areas of interest to be investigated will include:
- Different approaches to the coach-athlete relationship, especially in respect of high performance athletes
- Ethical issues and coaching
- Recent developments in coach education

Students will follow a twelve week guided study programme and access support material via Blackboard. Students will be required to access additional support material independently. Core required tasks will amount to an average of 8 hours of engagement per week, representing a total of 96 activity engagement hours for the module.

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 assessments set within the module will allow students to demonstrate understanding and critical analysis skills via content and task related activities drawn from within the above module topic areas.

The number of independent study hours is 204, representing a combination of further and additional reading and a series of optional tasks (96 hours) and specific preparation for the module assignments (108 hours).

Access to an appropriately specified PC, with accompanying Word, PowerPoint, Adobe and Java software.

Cassidy, T., Jones, R., & Potrac, P. (2009). Understanding sports coaching. The social, cultural and pedagogical foundations of coaching practice. London: Routledge
Kidman, L. (2005). Athlete-centred coaching. Developing inspired & inspiring people. Christchurch: Innovative Print Communications.
Lyle, J. (2002). Sports coaching concepts. A framework for coaches` behaviour. London: Routledge.