Programme Specifications

N/A

Events, Hospitality, Leisure, Sport and Tourism

August 2024

The foundation year provides opportunities for students to develop further the foundation of their interest and knowledge in the biological sciences. It aims to develop the intellectual and practical skills of the student in preparation for the DLS degree schemes and the wider range of disciplines open to the graduate biologist. It provides the skills necessary to allow students to adapt and to respond to change, and to engage in life-long learning. Students will develop an appreciation of the social responsibilities of graduates in biological sciences in general.

The degree is designed to increase the student’s understanding of the core disciplines of the Sport and Exercise Sciences via an increasingly integrated programme of study. Students will study modules in the subject areas of physiology, psychology and biomechanics. They will develop understanding of research methods and the ability to apply this to new and interesting topics areas. Students will also undertake modules which encourage personal and professional development.

Subject specific skills

The degree aims to develop subject specific skills through the many student-centred activities such as projects, workshops, problem-solving sessions and tutorials. Laboratory classes feature extensively, with students working in groups of four or five. Students will become skilled in using scientific equipment for sophisticated fitness testing and motion analysis. All modules are designed to develop independence in the appropriate application and use of the equipment.

Generic and graduate skills

Key skills are integrated into all our modules. These will develop the students’ ability to give presentations and speak confidently, to analyse data and produce reports, develop creativity, to write clearly and with substance, to research and analyse information, to solve problems and to work productively with others.

Throughout the three years, students will receive special sessions on developing employability skills such as writing a consultancy report, case study analysis, data collection, IT skills, effective communication strategies, job search strategies, interview techniques, and corporate culture.

Students will develop a strong scientific, analytical mind along with team-working skills, meaning that graduates are well-placed to enter a wide range of general careers. The skills acquired in sport and exercise science degrees are highly valued by employers and will enable a wide range of career choices for students developing the health sector as a viable career path.

To provide students with a knowledge and critical understanding of the key academic constituencies, which comprise the sport and exercise sciences: biomechanics, physiology and psychology, along with a base of appreciation of relevant aspects of the under-pinning sciences of physics, chemistry and biology.

A1 Demonstrate knowledge of the disciplines, and of the inter-disciplinary relationships, that underpin human structure and function

A2 Provide a critical appreciation of the relationship between sport and exercise activities in a range of groups in various settings

A3 Evaluate responses to Sport and Exercise to monitor, analysis, diagnose and prescribe action to enhance health and performance

A4 Demonstrate advanced level knowledge and understanding of theories and principles in selected areas within Sport and Exercise Science

A5 Display an awareness of current government policy on disease prevention and the relevance of exercise

A6 Understand the key concepts and techniques in general systems biology. Underpinning basic sciences including mathematics and computing (word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, etc.), biological chemistry, microbiology, analytical techniques and genetics (evolution, phylogeny, taxonomy, etc.).

A7 Gain knowledge and understanding of cellular biology, cell division, organelles and cellular homeostasis. Interactions of microbes, plants and animals with each other and with the environment.

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; workshops; seminars; tutorials; directed independent study; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.1 Intellectual Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to:

B1 Appropriately evaluate sources of information

B2 Construct critical reviews on a range of topics based on a range of information sources

B3 Solve problems of a numerical and logical nature

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills / Discipline Specific Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to:

C1 Demonstrate the practical skills and techniques required to monitor and evaluate participants in health and performance contexts

C2 Demonstrate an awareness of health and safety, risk assessment and ethical considerations

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; seminars; directed independent study; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to:

D1 Acquire skills in research and data analysis.

D2 Deploy mathematical and statistical concepts, processes and tools, such as the manipulation of equations and graphical and statistical analysis, to solve problems or evaluate data.

D3 Develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

D4 Develop a thorough grounding in information technology skills and use appropriate databases, computational techniques and tools to aid further understanding of and insight into biological processes.

D5 Demonstrate the ability to work independently.

D6 Demonstrate time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines.

D7 Develop the ability to express ideas and communicate effectively, in both written and oral forms, selecting appropriate content, media and methods for the audience, purpose and subject.

D8 Demonstrate self-motivation and self-reliance.

D9 Collaborate and work successfully and inclusively in a group environment, contributing positively and flexibly to team outputs.

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.