Course Description

This course involves the application of mechanical principles, quantitative analysis of human movement, and advanced study of biomechanical instrumentation systems. Critical analysis of current research in the field of biomechanics is also emphasized.

Rationale

The purpose of this course is to provide future clinicians and researchers in exercise science with an extensive knowledge base of the principles, theories, and concepts concerning the quantitative analysis of human movement. This course will prepare the student to both utilize and analyze video, force, and electromyographic data in EXSC 551, Advanced Biomechanics Lab, and in his/her future exercise science career. In addition, the student will also enhance his/her analytical skills through biomechanical research evaluation and review.

Measurable Learning Outcomes

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

1. 1. Describe the systems of instrumentation used in biomechanical research.
   2. Differentiate the components of planar and three-dimensional kinematics in relation to human movement and video analysis.
   3. Differentiate the components of planar and three-dimensional kinetics in relation to human movement.
   4. Describe the process of kinetic data collection and analysis using force plates.
   5. Describe the process of EMG data collection and analysis of waveform data.
   6. Select, analyze, and critically evaluate biomechanical research.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations

Course Requirements Checklist

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

Discussions (2)

Discussions 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 450-500 words, demonstrate course-related knowledge, and provide a total of 2 citations from any of the following sources: peer-reviewed journal articles, published textbooks, or publications directly associated with the content being discussed. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be at least 200-250 words, engage with course-related knowledge, and include at least 1 citation from any of the following sources: peer-reviewed journal articles, published textbooks, or published books directly associated with the content being discussed.

Article Review Assignments (3)

Each student will critically analyze 3 research articles that utilize biomechanical tools discussed in this course. Each article review assignment will be at least 2 pages (double spaced, 12-point font) and consist of the following sections: objectives, methods, results, summary, critique, and question/application.

PowerPoint Assignment

The student will compose a 15-slide PowerPoint presentation on the quantitative biomechanical analysis of a chosen sports skill or technique. It may be a strength and conditioning skill/technique, as well. The student will also utilize biomechanical software to measure joint angles of the body during 3 key phases of the chosen sports skill. Each slide in the Powerpoint notes section must contain at least 75 words, and the final slide must include at least 2 references in addition to the course textbook and the Bible.

Quizzes (4)

Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the Module: Week in which it is assigned. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes; contain short answers, true/false, multiple-choice, and/or essay questions; and have a 120-minute time limit.