SHN6202 - Physical Activity and Behaviour Change

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the role of exercise behaviour specialists within contemporary society.
Demonstrate a critical understanding of factors affecting participation and performance in health and fitness-related physical activity.
Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and competency in advising and supporting individuals in relation to positive health choices.
Critically evaluate current interventions for active living.

Content:

Responsibilities and professional competences of those working within a physical activity setting. Ecological models and physical activity. Exercise psychology and behaviour change theory; the promotion of active living and theoretical health behaviour models. Critique of current physical activity interventions across the life course and amongst special populations. The physical environment and how it affects our health, wellbeing, and levels of physical inactivity/sedentary behaviour. Client Consultation applied to a physical activity setting and the process of health behaviour change.

Learning and Teaching Information:

In lectures, students will learn the key literature surrounding physical activity and the theoretical concepts and models associated with behaviour change. In seminars, students will learn how to conceptualise that knowledge gained and apply it to a physical activity setting. Students will also work in small groups with peers, with support from the tutor.

Lectures
Contact hours: 30
Intended Group size: 70

Small group work/seminars
Contact hours: 10
Intended Group size: 20

Guided independent study
Hours: 160

Further details relating to assessment
A 2,000 word written assignment where students demonstrate critical understanding of the role of Physical Activity Specialists in improving health and a critical evaluation of the impact of two determinants of health drawn from the ecological model of health, drawing on established interventions to illustrate their critique.

A 1,500-word case study in which students demonstrate understanding, application and critique of motivational interviewing for addressing a health issue for a specific client.

Assessment:

001 Assignment; 2,000 words; End of Semester Two 50%
002 Individual case study; 1,500 words; End of Semester Two 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Christopher Sellars
Level - 6
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 6S2