SP4008 - Introduction to Coaching Science

What will I learn on this module?

The module is designed to introduce students to the role of science in the understanding of sports performance and how the scientific principles can be applied to the sports coaching process. Students will study the four main disciplines of physiology, psychology, biomechanics and nutrition in order to appreciate the role that science has on current practices in sport. Students will develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts within the four main disciplines. The application of these concepts to sport will be outlined to illustrate the interdisciplinary nature of the sports coaching process.

How will I learn on this module?

The taught content will be delivered and provided in a variety of formats, using a combination of lectures, seminars and practical workshops. You will be able to access additional materials on the eLP. The aim of the seminar sessions will be to consolidate learning and extend understanding of the lecture information through tasks, group interaction and discussion. The practical sessions will be used to develop students understanding of sports science in practice. Both seminar and practical sessions will enable students to link theory to coaching practice. There will be the opportunity to work in smaller groups with discipline specific members of staff who will facilitate context driven discussion and learning. You will also be set independent tasks informed by key literature to complete outside of class time to further develop your understanding of the taught content.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Module information, assessment requirements and expectations, and important module announcements will be made through the eLP. Material to support your learning will be uploaded in advance of sessions. Practical sessions will aid with the application of theory, with seminars further cementing the knowledge and understanding of both lecture and practical content. You will be provided with content verbally and guided through tasks during timetabled sessions. A dedicated assessment session will afford you the opportunity to ask assessment related questions in class. The Module Leader is there to support you with any queries that you may have about the module content, and all staff members provide tutorial time outside of class time. Module tutors will provide you with the necessary information on how to arrange a tutorial. You will have the opportunity to receive formative feedback on your development during the module, and you will receive feedback on summative work to help you identify areas of strength and areas for development. There will be the opportunity to discuss your feedback with a member of staff during a tutorial. There is also further academic skills support available from the University Library services.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Students will identify and explain basic biomechanical, physiological, psychological and nutritional structures and function

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
2. Students will apply selected principles of biomechanics, physiology, psychology and nutrition to a range of sporting contexts

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
3. Students will demonstrate the application of the scientific theory to the coaching process at both participation and performance level.

How will I be assessed?

Case study (2500 words - 100%): Students will be required to consider the role that physiological, psychological, nutritional and biomechanical factors play in optimising sports performance and coaching practice. (MLO 1,2 & 3)

Formative Assessment - Formative feedback will be provided on an on-going basis during practical sessions and seminars. Students will have the opportunity during seminars to research, evaluate and discuss the key areas of the module. Directed tasks will require students to engage in the module content to demonstrate their understanding of the application of this information. Support and feedback will be provided by module staff and peers.

You will receive written or audio feedback on your summative assessment to help you identify areas of strength and areas for development. There will be the opportunity to discuss your feedback with a member of staff during a tutorial.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

The nature of sport coaching is changing and current coaches are required to possess a holistic understanding all elements which impact on performance. Students will study the four main disciplines of physiology, psychology, biomechanics and nutrition in order to appreciate the role that science has on current practices in sport. It is imperative that students are developing evidence-based practices and this module provides students with the knowledge to create a rationale for their coaching methods. Students will develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts within the four main disciplines, whilst the application of these concepts to sport will be outlined to illustrate the interdisciplinary nature of the sports coaching process.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

Useful Links

Find out about our distinctive approach at 
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms

Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees

Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy

Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints