The aims of this module are to; (i) Provide the student with an understanding of computer and network applications relevant to the sports science sector, scientific research and industry; (ii) Provide the student with the skills to use desktop computers, networks and applications appropriate to the sports science sector and applied science research and industry; (iii) Provide an understanding of, and the ability to create visual presentations pertinent to sports science and applied science research and industry; and (iv) Provide the skills to communicate professionally in a technical and scientific capacity to individuals, teams and groups.
Introduction to Computer and Network Technology:
Types of computer, hardware and software, motherboard, storage devices, input devices, output devices, memory, system software, applications software, networks and multimedia.
Using a Desktop Computer:
Configuration of User Environment and Applications. Managing files and folders. Running programs and applications.
Communications technology:
Introduction to web based communication. Searching and sourcing information from the internet and other sources.
Word processing:
Word processor concepts. Correcting and amending text-copy. Formatting and printing. Graphics and Tables. Symbols and Equations. Integration of content from applications such as Spreadsheets.
Spreadsheets:
Spreadsheet concepts. Worksheet Design, Formatting and Editing. Formulae. Creating Graphs and Charts. Presentation of output. Printing.
Effective oral/visual presentation skills:
Preparation of material for oral report. Planning and preparation of effective visual aids. Delivery of short oral presentation with scientific content.
Library and Internet resources:
Library orientation. Sourcing books and journals, On-line library facilities. Sourcing scientific information on the web; subject guides, search engines.
Introduction to scientific journal publications:
Overview of key journals in course subject areas. Familiarisation with structure of review and technical scientific publications.
Citation and referencing methods:
Citation and referencing methods: Introduction to methods of citation. Student preparation of formatted reference listing from various publications provided.
Report writing:
Literature reviews and guides to compiling relevant information. Organisation of report. Overview of key sections of a scientific report. Use of symbols, tables, graphs, illustrations and appendices. Student analysis of sections of scientific reports.
Plagiarism:
Definition of plagiarism. Best practice in avoiding plagiarism when researching. Avoiding plagiarism in report writing. Consequences to plagiarising.
The scientific process:
Overview of the process of science, from hypothesis and theory to experimentation, peer review and publication. Uncertainty in experimentation.
Preparation of curriculum vitae and interview skills:
Key elements of curriculum vitae- layout and presentation Preparation for job interviews – sourcing company information – interview technique.
PRACTICAL COURSE:
A programme of workshops to educate students in the above skills and competencies will be run concurrently with lectures. These include 8 x 2-hour computer laboratory, 2 X 2 hour oral presentation session, 1x 2-hour library session, 1X 2 hour CV and Interview techniques session.Techniques and topics to be addressed include:
Methods used to achieve the module learning outcomes will include lectures, tutorials, interpretation of data, case studies, problem-solving exercises, video presentations, self-directed learning and computer-based learning
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |