Module: Introduction to Research Methods

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Introduction to Research Methods
Module Code	SPO1024 (ITS: SS239)
Faculty	Health & Human Performance	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

This module will introduce students to the critical analysis of research in sport science. It will also introduce students to common quantitative research methodologies, designs, statistical concepts and analytical techniques in sport science. A heavy emphasis will be placed on practical experience through reading and reviewing journal articles.

Learning Outcomes

1. 1. Examine the fundamental components of the research process
2. 2. Apply principles of database searching in a review of literature and summarise the research literature
3. 3. Enhance knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research skills

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	No Description
Laboratory	12	No Description
Independent Study	89	No Description
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	21063	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Anna Donnla O'Hagan	Module Teacher	Brendan Egan, Shane Noonan

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Short Answer Questions	n/a	20%	Week 6
Assignment	n/a	60%	Week 11
Group presentation	n/a	20%	Week 12

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

The Research Process

Critical Analysis

Qualitative Vs Quantitative Research

Referencing

Literature Review

Methodologies

Research Design

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Berg, K.E. & Latin, R.W.: 2004, Essentials of Research Methods in Health, Physical Education, Exercise Science, and Recreation, 2nd, Lippincot Williams & Wilkins, USA,
Gratton, C., & Jones, I.: 2010, Research Methods for Sports Studies, 2nd, Routledge, London,
Lynch, C.: 2010, Doing your Research Project in Sport, Learning Matters Ltd, Cornwall, England,
Neil, R., Hanton, S., Fleming, S., & Wilson, K.: 2014, The Research Process in Sport, Exercise and Health, Routledge, London,
Tenenbaum, G. & Driscoll, M.P.: 2005, Methods of Research in Sport Sciences: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches, Meyer & Meyer Sport (UK) Ltd, Oxford,
Thomas, J.R., Nelson, J.K. & Silverman, S.J.: 2005, Research Methods in Physical Activity, 5th, Human Kinetics, Leeds,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None