Overview

This module is designed to introduce some of the key areas of contemporary sport and exercise psychology research. It will give you a solid basis in sport and exercise psychology and it will help you to make more educated choices about which areas of sport and exercise to specialise in as you progress to years two and three. We will strive to bring the material to life by presenting real life examples of psychology concepts in action in sport and exercise settings. In doing so, you will learn how sport and exercise psychologists can apply scientific research to develop psychological packages to support clients/athletes.

Students on this module will learn about the most influential psychological theories and models in sport, exercise, and health. Topics may include: “Theories of motivation”, “Cognitive-Behavioural approach”, “Mental aspects of performance”, "stress, anxiety, arousal", "emotions", "social psychology ", "psychological profiling", etc.

Assessment Strategy

threshold -D- to C+. The work only demonstrates knowledge of key areas/principles and there is limited evidence of originality or of background study. The work contains some irrelevant material and weaknesses in structure. Arguments are presented but they lack coherence. The work contains factual/computational errors with little evidence of problem solving. There are weaknesses in the standard of the presentation and its accuracy.

-good -B- to B+. Work displays sound knowledge and understanding but with some limitations. There is evidence of background study. The work had a defined and logical structure but with some weaknesses in the way in which arguments are presented. There is some original interpretation and demonstration of links between topics. The work is presented carefully with accurate communication and few factual or computational errors.

-excellent -A- and above. Work displays comprehensive knowledge and detailed understanding, reflecting extensive background study. The work is highly focussed, well structured, logically presented and with defended arguments. The work contains original interpretation and sensible links between topics are developed. The work is presented to a high standard with accurate communication and no factual or computational errors.

Learning Outcomes

• Explain how theory can be applied in practical research.

• Identify main ideas and the outcomes of key research papers on foundational topics in sport and exercise psychology

• Recognize the theory behind key topics in sport and exercise psychology.