MA450 Assessment of physical activity and Assessment of physical activity and fitness (Autumn 2024)

Introduction

The subject will introduce the students to various research-based methods for assessing physical activity and physical fitness in individuals and populations. Students are expected to acquire extensive theoretical and practical knowledge about the topic.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course the students shall be able to

• extensively give an account of and know how to apply self-report and device-measured methods for assessing physical activity and field-based methods for assessing physical fitness in individuals and populations

• provide an in-depth assessment of the strengths and limitations with assessment methods for physical activity and aerobic fitness

• use programmes for data reduction of physical activity data

• evaluate (critically) and recommend which method is best suited for different research purposes

Learning methods and activities

Student active learning methods including field work, student presentations, seminars, individual case reports and interactive plenary lectures are planned. Much of the course work is based on group work and active participation is required. Specific data reductions programs will be introduced during a data lab.

Work requirements

• Group presentations, seminars and data labs are compulsory.

• Attendance and active participation in the seminars are required.

• Individual assignments are compulsory.

Compulsory course content must be approved before the final assessment.

Assessment/exam

Students will, in groups of four to five students, conduct a small research project including data collections using various measurement methods for physical activity and/or physical fitness, data analyses and report writing. 
The project report and oral presentation are assessed by grades A to F with the written report weighted as 75 %.

Core literature

Core literature for fall 2024.