Chapter 3 Module Details

3.1 Module Descriptor

This module aims to develop students’ knowledge and understanding in the planning, conduct and reporting of scientific research.

Students will conduct a research project where they identify a topic for research, design and conduct an appropriate study, analyse and interpret data they have collected and write and submit a report in line with the Sport and Exercise format for dissertations.

Aligned with this dissertation/project students will also have to produce a project proposal (including ethical approval and risk assessment when appropriate), which will outline the main background, methods, and evaluation strategies.

Finally, based upon their dissertation/project and final year study, students will undertake a viva in which they outline how the current module (and other modules and experiences in their final year) have supported their transferable skills and readiness for the world of work.

This flexible module enables students to choose an award relevant topic and type of assignment which is best suited to their current areas of interest and career aspirations.

3.2 Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of a selected area in sports and exercise. Analysis, Knowledge and Understanding, Learning, Problem Solving, Enquiry

  2. Plan, organise, and apply the methods and techniques associated with conducting research for a selected project within the sports and exercise domain Enquiry, Problem Solving

  3. Communicate the findings in both written and oral formats to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Analysis, Application, Communication

  4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding in the ethical considerations and processes associated with conducting scientific research in sports and exercise. Knowledge and Understanding, Learning

  5. Reflect upon and demonstrate a critical understanding of the key transferable skills that have emerged from final year study. Reflection

3.3 Learning Strategies

In order to provide the best learning experience to our students, the sport and science team is committed to providing an environment that supports and encourages students to develop their knowledge, understanding and technical skills. To achieve this, we use a variety of teaching and learning techniques to meet the diverse needs of our students. These techniques include, but are not limited to, problem-based learning, context-based learning, simulation, and peer to peer learning. This approach ensures that students are able to contextualise their knowledge and understanding and best prepares them for employment.

This module is predominantly studied independently. At the beginning of the module, students will receive a series of tutor led sessions that outline the module expectations, including the supporting documentation, ethical requirements and submission guidelines. Students will be allocated a supervisor who will provide advice, guidance and oversight of the independent project. Students are entitled to a minimum of six 30-minute appointments with their allocated supervisor throughout the year. Students will be expected to engage independently with the evidence associated with their topic and manage their time effectively in order to keep their projects on schedule.

3.4 Assessment Strategies

  1. Research Protocol & Ethical Application: Students will produce a written project proposal including ethical approval, costings and risk assessment applications (where appropriate) outlining the proposed programme of work: Learning outcome 2 and 4

  2. Research Project: Students will produce a written account, in accordance with Staffordshire University and Good Reporting guidelines, of their research which provides the background, methodology, results and discussion of their project findings. Learning outcome 1, 2 and 3

  3. Presentation/Viva: Students will orally present their research project and provide justification for decisions made in the planning, conduct and interpretation of their study. Students will reflect on the project, identifying transferable skills learnt and offering areas of strength, weakness, and opportunities for future research. Learning outcomes 3 and 5