SPORTS SCIENCE

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Scholz

Pre-requisites

None

 

Co-requisites

None

Notes

The practical work required in this course may pose difficulties to students with some disabilities. If this arises alternative arrangements will be made. Any student wishing to discuss this further should contact the School Disability Co-ordinator.

Overview

This course will introduce physiology, anatomy and pharmacology and their application to sport and exercise science. It will include an outline of basic physiological functions of the body and how these can adapt to changing demand such as during exercise. An introduction to anatomy and the human musculoskeletal system will be linked to aspects of human movement. Understanding of basic pharmacology will focus on the use of drugs in sport and also in common disease states. Energy metabolism and human nutrition will be described with an emphasis on their importance to human physiology and sport and exercise science. Basic physiological techniques will be introduced and will be related to effects and functions of exercise.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week and 1 practical every 2 weeks.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment (100%).  MCQ assessments during course.

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ exam (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Formative Assessment

PRS questions during lectures and practice questions on WebCT.

Feedback

PRS MCQ assessment answers discussed at the end of assessment session.

Immediate feedback on practice questions available on WebCT.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Scholz

Pre-requisites

None

 

Co-requisites

None

Notes

The practical work required in this course may pose difficulties to students with some disabilities. If this arises alternative arrangements will be made. Any student wishing to discuss this further should contact the School Disability Co-ordinator.

Overview

This course will briefly explain physiological functions and fundamentals of sport and exercise physiology in the context of performance, fitness and survival. Measurement of performance and how physiological and metabolic adaptations alter performance, health and survival will be examined. The effects of environmental conditions, nutrition, health, gender and age will all be considered. Basics of human conditioning will also be covered, with an emphasis on the physiological differences between basic conditioning principles in relation to training outcomes and their physiological backgrounds.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week and 1 practical every 2 weeks.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment (100%). MCQ and problem solving assessments during course.

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ exam (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Formative Assessment

PRS questions during lectures and practice questions on WebCT.

Problem-based learning exercise.

Feedback

PRS MCQ assessment answers discussed at the end of assessment session.

Immediate feedback on practice questions available on WebCT.

Feedback on problem-based learning exercise.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Ratkevicius

Pre-requisites

None.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

This course is designed to introduce students to the application of science in the study of elite sports performance and exercise responses. Fundamental aspects of exercise physiology, along with the principles of training and effects of over-training, sports injuries and the use of drugs in sport will be introduced. Research methodology is highlighted throughout. By the end of this course students will have a wide appreciation of the major factors underpinning sports performance.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week and 1 three-hour practical every 2 weeks.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment (100%). Test 1 (problem solving & MCQ - 20%); Four MCQ tests (12.5 % each); Lab report (15%); Two mini tests (7.5% each).

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ examination (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Formative Assessment

MCQ in lectures/practicals, MCQ practice questions (Self-tests) on WebCT, Problem-solving sessions with feedback on performance.

Feedback

Practical reports will be marked with written comments. Problem-solving sessions include analysis of common errors and misconceptions. Students receive on-line feedback on completion of their practice MCQ tests (self-tests) on WebCT. Results of all the formative in-course tests are also reported back to the students.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S Gray

Pre-requisites

None.

Co-requisites

None.

Overview

This course examines the implications of regular physical activity for both the individual and society as a whole. Also the role of sport and exercise in contemporary society will be explored.

The effects of regular exercise on physical and psychological well-being will be studied and the efficacy of physical exercise as a treatment modality in various disease states will be reviewed. Situations in which exercise is contra-indicated will be highlighted and those factors which influence participation in, and adherence to programmes of regular physical activity will be discussed.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week and 5 three-hour practicals over the course of the module.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment (100%). 2 MCQ exams (30% each), 2 case studies (5% each) and 2 laboratory reports (15% each).

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ examination (70%) and previous case studies and laboratory reports (30%).

Formative Assessment

Practice questions given throughout the lectures.

Feedback

Practical reports will be marked with written comments.
General feedback provided following in-course MCQ assessments.

Case studies will be marked with written comments.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr L J Mahady

Pre-requisites

PS 1009, PS 1509, PS 2015, PS 2515

Overview

1. Introduction: the rise of, and demand for, Sports Psychology.
2. Personality. A definition. Theories. The measurement of personality. The relationship between sport and personality.
3. Sport and Aggression. Aggression on and off the sports field. Factors which increase the likelihood of aggressive behaviour, and measures which can be taken to tackle aggression and antisocial behaviour.
4. Leadership & Coaching. The role of the coach. The personality and leadership style of the coach. The coach-athlete relationship. Coaching for children, novices and elite athletes.
5. The Sports Team. Define team. Group cohesion. Measuring cohesion. The impact of cohesion on sporting performance.
6. Adherence to Exercise Programmes. Limitations. Strategies to improve adherence: goal setting, exercising with others, intrinsic vs extrinsic rewards.

Structure

1 two-hour lecture per week and 1 one-hour tutorial per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 one and a half-hour essay examination (70%) and in-course assessment (3000 word essay) (30%).

Resit: 1 one and a half-hour essay examination (70%) and previous continuous assessment (essay) (30%).

Formative Assessment

Formative Essay. 3000 words.
Review of journal article: oral presentation of review with question and answer session.

Feedback

Essays will be marked with written comments.
Problem solving questions will be discussed during tutorials.
Tutorial sessions will provide feedback on course content.
Students are given general feedback on performance following presentation of journal article review.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr L J Mahady

Pre-requisites

PS 1009, PS 1509, PS 2015, PS 2515.

Overview

1. Motivation and Sport Motivation: definitions. Achievement motivation. The need for achievement. How achievement can guide performance. Intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation. Factors which can effect and increase motivation. Factors which can impede motivation. Gender differences.
2. Attitudes. The formation of attitudes. Attitudes and behaviour. Measuring attitudes. Changing attitudes. Stereotyping and discrimination in sport. Female athletes. Black athletes.
3. Arousal. Measuring arousal. Drive theory and the inverted 'U' hypothesis. Anxiety allevaition. Cognitive interventions.
4. Alcohol, Drugs and Sport. The motivation. Ethical issues.
5. Adherence to Exercise Programmes. Limitations. Strategies to improve adherence.
6. Sports Injuries: psychological factors which influence susceptibility to injury and recovery from injury. The role of life events, stress, coping mechanisms. Remaining motivated, injury rehabilitation.

Structure

1 two-hour lecture per week and 1 one-hour tutorial per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 one and a half-hour essay examination (70%) and in-course assessment (essay 3000 words) (30%).

Resit: 1 one and a half-hour essay examination (70%) and previous in-course assessment (essay) (30%).

Formative Assessment

Formative Essay 3000 words. review of journal article, oral presentation of review with question and answer session.

Feedback

Essays will be marked with written comments.
Problem solving questions will be discussed during tutorials.
Tutorial sessions will provide feedback on course content.
Students are given general feedback on performance following presentation of journal article review.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr A Jenkinson and Dr M Scholz

Pre-requisites

BI 25M7

Overview

This course will consider the biochemical responses to acute exercise and the adaptations that occur in response to repeated bouts of exercise. In addition, the effect of exercise on nutritional requirements and the effects of diet on exercise performance will be examined. The course will investigate the energetics of muscle activity, the sources of energy available to muscle, the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein and lipids, the control and integration of the metabolic response to exercise and biochemical mechanisms involved in the fatigue process. The effects of exercise on energy balance and body composition, nutritional demands of high level training as well as the roles of diet and exercise in a healthy lifestyle will be studied. The relevance of dietary recommendations for athletes and the use of dietary supplements and other ergogenic aids will be reviewed.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week and 1 full day practical every week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour essay examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%). Continuous assessment comprises: 2 laboratory reports, 1 problem solving exercise, 1 essay (1,500 words).

Resit: 1 three-hour essay examination (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Formative Assessment

A mock exam allows students to practice for essay based exams and receive feedback on their performance.

Feedback

Practical reports and essays will be marked with written comments.

Problem solving questions will be discussed during a specific lecture/feedback session.

Tutorial sessions will provide discussion and feedback on course content.

Written comments will be provided on the mock exam question.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr H Wackerhage and Dr A Lionikas

Pre-requisites

SR 2002, SR 2501

Overview

In the course skeletal and heart muscle are reviewed together with diseases/injuries of these organs and the use of exercise as a treatment. Anatomical prosections are used to illustrate musculoskeletal anatomy and their association with sports injuries. Mechanisms of sarcopenia, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease are discussed together with the detailed mechanisms that explain the success of exercise interventions in the treatment of these diseases. Undergraduates attend and observe exercise therapy classes relating theory and practice.

Structure

3 one hour lectures and 1 practical session per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour essay examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%). Continuous assessment comprises: anatomy tests and a problem solving exercise.

Resit: 1 three-hour essay examination (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Feedback

- Practical reports will be marked with written comments.
- Problem solving questions will be discussed during a lecture/feedback session.
- Tutorial sessions will provide feedback on course content.
- Written comments will be provided on the mock exam question.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr A Mavroeidi

Pre-requisites

Notes

Available only to students in programme year 3 or above.

Overview

This course is designed to introduce students to the concepts of scientific nutrition. Topics covered will include: nutritional constituents of food, assessment of dietary intake and nutritional status, nutrition and the life-cycle, the role of nutrition in the prevention and development of chronic diseases, current nutritional recommendations and nutritional policy.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week, 3 one-hour tutorials and 6 full day practicals.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour written examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).
Continuous assessment comprises: 1 laboratory report, and 1 essay (2000 words).

Resit: 1 three-hour essay examination (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Formative Assessment

- Mock exam allows students to practice for essay based exams and receive feedback on their performance.
- Practice exam questions on MyAberdeen.
- Problem-solving sessions.

Feedback

- Practical report and essay will be marked with written comments.
- Problem solving questions will be discussed during a lecture/feedback session.
- Tutorial sessions will provide feedback on common mistakes for the practical reports and essay.
- Written comments will be provided on the mock exam question and common mistakes will be discussed on subsequent tutorial.

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr S Gray and Dr A Jenkinson

Pre-requisites

SR 3506

Co-requisites

BM 4005

Overview

This course provides a detailed coverage of research topics in Sport and Exercise Science. It will emphasise different factors which contribute to overall sport and exercise performance and consider any relevant adaptations that occur in response to different types of training. It will include a detailed consideration of five main research topics, and focus on factors particular to each. These topics will include aspects of physiology, nutrition, health, exercise and performance from the molecular level to an integrated human performance model. Other topics will be included to reflect the fast moving research interests within the School of Medical Sciences.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures/tutorials plus student presentation per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour written examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr S Gray and Dr A Jenkinson

Pre-requisites

SR 3511

Overview

This course provides a detailed coverage of research topics in Sports Studies. It will emphasise different factors which contribute to overall sport and exercise performance and consider any relevant adaptations that occur in response to different types of training. It will include a detailed consideration of five main research topics, and focus on factors particular to each. These topics will include aspects of health, nutrition, health, exercise and fitness both with regard to athletics and the wider population. Other topics will be included to reflect the fast moving research interests within the School of Medical Sciences.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures/tutorials plus student presentations per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour written examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr L Mahady

Pre-requisites

SR3504 and/or at least 30 credits of psychology at level 3.

Overview

This course aims to look at a number of issues which adversely affect sportspeople and others in both a physiological and psychological manner. The conditions to be investigated are: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, muscle dysmorphia, obesity, and sports which demand that individuals "make a weight". The aetiology of these conditions will be considered from both the psychological and the physiological perspectives, and potential therapeutic interventions will combine both approaches. Students should come to appreciate the value of a multi-disciplinary approach to dealing with health problems in any setting.

Structure

3 one-hour lecture per week, 1 two-hour tutorial /presentation per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour essay examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Continuous assessment comprises: 1 essay (3000 words)

Resit: 1 two-hour essay examination (70%) and previous continuous assessment (30%).

Formative Assessment

- Case-study exercises with feedback in preparation for summative assessments.

Feedback

- Essays will be marked with written comments.
- Problem solving questions will be discussed during tutorials.
- Tutorial sessions will provide feedback on course content.
- Discussion based feedback on case study exercises.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Jenkinson and Dr A Lionikas

Pre-requisites

SR 3001

Co-requisites

SR 4001

Overview

This course provides a detailed coverage of the physiological responses to exercise, using both human and animal models. It emphasises the factors which are thought to limit exercise capacity in different situations. There will be emphasis on fatigue in high intensity exercise, with a focus on adenine nucleotide depletion, effects of pH on muscle contractility, and electrolyte changes in muscle. The potential limitations to oxygen transport will be discussed. The factors associated with fatigue in prolonged exercise will also be examined. These include: substrate depletion, thermal balance, dehydration. How the body adapts to training and the effects of excessive overload will be considered. This will include both positive and negative effects of training, which may influence health and performance such as immune function, bone adaptation and dietary intakes. In addition, the influence of genotype on performance will be investigated.

Structure

6 week course - 3 one-hour lectures per week and 3 tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Credit Points

60

Course Coordinator

Dr D Shewan

Pre-requisites

SR 4001, BM 4005, SR 4301.

Notes

The practical work required in this course may pose difficulties to some students with disabilities. If this arises alternative arrangements will be made. Any student wishing to discuss this further should contact the School Disability Co-ordinator.

Overview

A 10 week research project will be undertaken, during which the student will learn laboratory skills and/or literature search techniques. Skills in research design, data handling, statistical analysis, and information technology will be developed through practical applications. A thesis will be written and defended orally.

Structure

Laboratory work and/or literature assimilation, full time.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment with contributions from thesis, practical work and projects.

Credit Points

60

Course Coordinator

Dr A Ratkevicius

Pre-requisites

SR4005

Notes

Only available to students in year 4 of Sports Studies.

Overview

The aim of this course is to provide the student with essential knowledge for developing evidence based training programmes aimed at improving performance, fitness and health. Principles and recommendations of training will be reviewed and discussed in light of the available scientific evidence. The fundamentals of fitness testing and assessment will be analysed in relation to the specific requirements of age and health of the participants. The design of fitness sessions as well as planning of exercise training will be discussed and analysed. The original research publications in the area of sports and exercise training will be critically evaluated. The course also includes sessions on scientific data collection, analysis and presentation.

Structure

1 or 2 hour tutorial per week, 4 two-hour seminars and 3 practicals'

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%). Continuous assessment comprises: 1 journal article, 1 viva, 1 research dissertation

Resit: In-course assessment (100%).

Formative Assessment

- Poster presentation
- Oral presentation
- Mock exam allows students to practice for essay based exams and receive feedback on their performance.
- Case-study exercise with feedback in preparation for summative assessments.
- Problem-solving sessions.

Feedback

- Practical reports and essays will be marked with written comments.
- Problem solving questions will be discussed during a lecture/feedback session.
- Tutorial sessions will provide feedback on course content.
- Written comments will be provided on the mock exam question.
- Feedback on problem-based learning exercise.