B8893 - METODOLOGIA DELLA RICERCA APPLICATA ALLO SPORT

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be familiar with the main scientific research methods applied to sport and exercise sciences. They will develop the necessary skills to plan, conduct, evaluate, and present research on sports performance or physical activity for health promotion, as well as physical therapy, rehabilitation, and occupational therapy.

Course contents

Sources of knowledge and introduction to the scientific method:

• Limits of personal experience and common sense

• The unnatural nature of science

Research planning:

• Scientific literature search and review

• Formulating research questions and hypotheses

Ethical aspects of human research

Quantitative research methods:

• Descriptive research: cross-sectional and longitudinal

• Correlational research

• Experimental research

• Quasi-experimental research

• Causal-comparative ("ex-post facto") research

Introduction to qualitative research

Statistical data analysis:

• Descriptive and inferential statistics

• Statistical significance vs. practical relevance

Dissemination of scientific research findings:

• Conference presentations (oral and poster)

• Scientific journal articles

Readings/Bibliography

Thomas, Jerry R., Jack K. Nelson, e Stephen S. Silverman. Metodologia della ricerca per le scienze motorie e sportive. A cura di Pasquale Bellotti e Alberto Rainoldi, Calzetti & Mariucci, 2012.

Teaching methods

Traditional lectures and small group work

Assessment methods

Single exam for the integrated course B8892 RESEARCH METHODS APPLIED TO SPORT

Oral exam with presentation and discussion of a research proposal

Marking criteria

• Excellent (28-30 cum laude): The proposed research project features a rigorous methodological design and a statistical analysis plan perfectly aligned with the investigated variables. The presentation (both oral and visual) is seamless, highly effective, and strictly on time. During the discussion, the candidate demonstrates sophisticated critical analysis, a deep awareness of study limitations, and flawless use of scientific and methodological terminology.

• Good (24-27): The project is solid and well-structured, with an appropriate methodological and statistical plan, despite minor inaccuracies in secondary details. The delivery is clear and well-supported by visual aids. The candidate answers questions during the discussion effectively and uses appropriate terminology, demonstrating a strong general understanding, though with less critical depth or minor gaps in originality.

• Sufficient (18-23): The project demonstrates a basic grasp of core research concepts but contains inconsistencies or gaps in the study design or the proposed statistical analysis. The presentation is understandable but flat or poorly structured. During the discussion, the candidate struggles to critically justify their methodological choices, relying on rote answers and showing limited terminological precision.

• Fail (<18): The project exhibits severe methodological flaws, a missing or incorrect statistical analysis plan, and an inability to formulate a coherent research question. The presentation is disorganized or extremely incomplete, and the candidate cannot justify or defend the project's choices during the discussion.

Teaching tools

Virtuale platform and library resources

Office hours

See the website of Samuele Maria Marcora