Prerequisites for Module
Successful completion of Stages 1 and 2 of the BSc (Hons) Applied Sport and Exercise Science course, or equivalent.
Corequisite Modules
None.
Precluded Modules
None.
Aims of Module
The aim of the module is to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and skills to critically appraise evidence and analyse data using both qualitative and quantitative means.
Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
| 1. |
Apply a systematic approach to critical analysis of literature.
|
| 2. |
Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of different research methods.
|
| 3. |
Select and justify appropriate data analysis methods based upon the data and research design context.
|
| 4. |
Analyse, interpret and present qualitative data.
|
| 5. |
Analyse, interpret and present quantitative data.
|
Indicative Module Content
Introduction to scientific methods, qualitative and quantitative research design; application of the concepts of validity and reliability to the appraisal of research literature; use of critical appraisal tools to systematically evaluate research; role of research and its application; qualitative paradigms; ethnography, phenomenology; thematic analysis; interviews, focus groups, observation; descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric tests (e.g. t-test, ANOVA, Pearson Correlation, Regression, Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U test); use of SPSS to conduct statistical operations.
| Indicative Student Workload
Contact Hours
| Full Time | Journal Clubs
| 4 | Lectures
| 12 | Workshops
| 44 |
Directed Study
| |
| 60 |
Private Study
| |
| 180 |
Mode of Delivery
Combination of lectures, workshops and journal clubs.
Assessment Plan
|
Learning Outcomes Assessed
| | Component 1 | 1,2,3,4,5
|
Component 1 will be assessed by coursework.
Indicative Bibliography
| 1. | THOMAS, J.R. NELSON, J.K. AND SILVERMAN, S.J., 2015. Research methods in physical activity. 7th ed. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
| | 2. | PALLANT, J., 2013. SPSS survival manual: A step by step guide to data analysis using IBM SPSS. 5th ed. London: Open University Press.
| | 3. | BAZELEY, P., 2013. Qualitative data analysis: Practical strategies. London: Sage.
| | 4. | O’DONOGHUE, P., 2012. Statistics for sport and exercise studies: An introduction. London: Routledge.
|
Additional Notes
A pass will not normally be awarded for this module unless the student has participated in at least two research projects (either as a participant or an assistant).
|