Course Description

In this course, students will be given the opportunity to develop their knowledge of the applied theories behind exercise science research methods. An emphasis will be placed on study design and approval, manuscript format and preparation, application of statistical analysis, and data evaluation.

Rationale

The purpose of this course is to enhance the student’s knowledge of research methods in exercise science and human performance. This course is designed to introduce the student to the various aspects that comprise the exercise science research process that including literature reviews, problem-solving, methods development, ethical issues in research, elementary statistical procedures, etc. The student is afforded the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to synthesize and critique exercise science literature as well as successfully write a research paper or present a research project.

Measurable Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. 1. Communicate effectively concerning current topics in exercise science literature.
   2. Demonstrate an understanding of the differences and applicability of various methods of experimental design.
   3. Evaluate the quality of research design examples.
   4. Propose an original research study.
   5. Compose a manuscript based on an original study design.
   6. Apply the correct statistical analysis technique to specific study design scenarios.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

Course Requirements Checklist

At Liberty University, After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussion (2)

Discussion assignments are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to create a thread in response to the provided promptly for each discussion. Each thread must be at least 350 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates threads. Each reply must be at least 200 words. Each thread and reply must contain at least 1 citation in the current APA format.

Abstract Creation Assignment

The student will need to read (several times over) the assigned journal article and then create an abstract for the article. The student must be very familiar with the contents of the instructor-chosen article in order to write an adequate and sufficient abstract. This assignment must be 250–350 words and be in the current APA format.

Quizzes (5)

Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the assigned modules: weeks. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes, contain 20 multiple-choice and 2 essay questions, and have a 1-hour and 20-minute time limit.