This unit gives learners the opportunity to conduct a dissertation-style project into an area of personal interest
within the sport and exercise sciences. Learners should investigate a topic that is within their capabilities, is of
their choosing and is based on relevant knowledge, skills and understanding gained through other units in the
qualification. Therefore, this unit should be delivered after learners have had sufficient opportunity to develop
a range of interests and knowledge within the sport and exercise sciences.
Delivery should concentrate on developing the skills of planning, doing, disseminating and evaluating research.
This should allow learners to apply their understanding of research methods to a practical situation. If learners
have not fully developed this understanding, it may be useful to re-visit the key aspects of Unit 4: Research
Methods for Sport and Exercise Sciences.
It is essential that learners plan, conduct, disseminate and evaluate the research project within a structured
and logical framework. Tutors should emphasise that the skills developed through completion of the research
project, for example time management, communication, reflective practice and ICT, are transferable to other
contexts, including higher education and the workplace.
Learners will need advice and guidance for the more technical aspects of the unit, such as producing a
complete research report in a clear and appropriately structured format, the correct application of the
Harvard referencing system and using, as opposed to simply reading, literature from appropriate sources.
Teaching and learning strategies should incorporate a number of methods and activities, drawing on a variety
of resources to introduce learners to the range of practices within the research process. Learners should
develop knowledge, skills and understanding through a combination of independent research, research
project workshops and the use of research supervisors. It is recommended that the more technical aspects
are delivered directly through tutor input.