- Docente: David Neil Manners
- Credits: 4
- SSD: M-EDF/01
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Bologna
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Corso:
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in
Wellness and Sport Management (cod. 9214)
Also valid for Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Sciences and Techniques of Preventive and Adapted Physical Activities (cod. 8036)
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Sciences and Techniques of Sports Activities (cod. 8037)
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Sciences and Techniques of Sports Activities (cod. 8037)
Learning outcomes
At the end of the course the student will have a basic understanding of the research process and methods available for research within the various sub-disciplines of kinesiology and exercise science as well as physical therapy, rehabilitation, and occupational therapy. In particular, the student will gain competency in understanding, planning, conducting, assessing, and presenting research.
Course contents
Introduction. Alternative models of research, and overview of the research process. Purpose and methods of literature review. Identifying and developing the research problem. Presenting the hypothesis.
Statistical concepts and study design. Motivation for statistical analysis. Basic concepts of statistical techniques. Description. Inference. Sample selection. Randomization. Effect size. Power.
Parametric techniques. Relationship and correlation among variables. Prediction. Multiple regression. Differences between groups. ANOVA and ANCOVA
Nonparametric techniques. Nominal and ordinal data. Differences among groups. Testing observed versus expected data.
Measurement. Measurement of physical activity. Concepts of validity and reliability. Measurement error. Measurement scales.
Quantitative research. Observational versus experimental research. Experimental designs. Internal and external validity. Using meta-analysis to synthesize research.
Ethical issues. Scientific dishonesty. Copyright and plagiarism. Protecting study participants
Reporting research. Developing a good introduction. Describing the method. Results and discussion. Using tables and figures. Writing abstracts. Making oral and poster presentations.
Readings/Bibliography
Research Methods in Physical Activity. Sixth Edition. JR Thomas, JK Nelson, SJ Silverman. Publisher: Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL. USA.
Teaching methods
Frontal lessons. Supplementary exercises are proposed for home study, and discussed during class.
Assessment methods
Written and oral exam to test the students' comprehension of the lecture material and evaluate their critical thinking skills with regard to the course as a whole.
Teaching tools
PC and video projector
Office hours
See the website of David Neil Manners