Course content

In this course, students learn the basis for choosing and discussing appropriate methodology related to issues within physical education as a field of research. The course aims to develop an in-depth understanding of what research and development work entails, and strengthen students' ability to critically reflect on researchable questions in physical education. The course develops students' understanding of how to work scientifically by providing in-depth knowledge of the theoretical basis of science for the nature of various research methods, as well as specific research designs and analyzes used to study physical education as a school subject. Through the course, students will experience how to use different analyzes as part of elucidating current issues in relation to physical education as a school subject, and how discussions of validity and reliability are expressed in different parts of the research process. Research ethics is emphasized as a topic in the course.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

At the end of the course, the student is expected to:

• have in-depth knowledge of ethical aspects of research
• have in-depth knowledge of the theoretical basis of science for various research methods
• Have insight into the use of various scientific analyzes

Skills

At the end of the course, the student is expected to:

• Be able to describe, explain and discuss principles for choosing research design within physical education
• Be able to select and carry out relevant scientific analyzes
• Be able to assess reliability and validity in research

General competence

The student is expected at the end of the course to

• Have the competence to use different research literature in the development of issues and projects
• Be able to assess research ethics issues
• Have competence to apply relevant scientific perspective, design, method and analysis - be able to assess qualities in and in research in physical education

Learning methods and activities

Seminars, workshops, work in groups, individual work, lectures, practical exercises

Compulsory assignments

• Obligatory course work according to course description

Further on evaluation

Compulsory work requirements:

• Approved project description with problem statement for master project
• Mandatory participation in practical exercises

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

The student must have passed physical education 1 and completed physical education 2 in order to be able to start courses in cycle 2. Passing is understood as the student having completed and passed the exam in the course. Completed is understood as that all compulsory work requirements in the course have been approved, in other words that the student is ready for the exam.

Course materials

Reading list will be shared in Blackboard.