Module Description

This module supports the content of other first year modules and prepares students for the second year. The key focus of this module is to develop students’ fundamental academic skills, including but not limited to scientific writing literature searching, the scientific paper format, research design, data collection, analysis, interpretation and presentation. This module introduces learners to the concepts that are fundamental to academic scholarship.

This module will also enhance personal development in preparation for future employment opportunities in your future career through the development of key transferable skills (e.g., communication, presentation and collaboration). Students will create a skills portfolio which evidences and reflects on key skills acquired across all modules, together with a CV, personal statement and reflective practice exercise.

This module is delivered by a mixture of teaching methods including lectures, practicals, PC labs and seminars.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Apply knowledge about major principles and concepts or research design.
2. Demonstrate confidence in academic writing and referencing other people’s work in a systematic way.
3. Demonstrate ability to source and interpret information and statistical data (exam)
4. Demonstrate ability to communicate by structuring and presenting information effectively (presentation, portfolio)
5. Reflect constructively on learning and professional experiences and examine their values and skills to enhance their professional identity.

Module Description

This module explores the physical and mechanical principles that determine human movement in sports and exercise settings.  Learners will learn the meaning of concepts such as force, mass, speed, velocity, acceleration, momentum and will explore how they enable us to describe and understand movement in sport and exercise. The exploration of human movement principles, load and force will provide learners with an understanding of injury mechanics and rehabilitation requirements and progression in relation to sports therapy and sports therapy modalities.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Describe how the basic principles of mechanics can be applied to describe and explain movements of the human body and injury mechanism in sport
2. Describe how applications of Newton’s laws of motion can explain the causes of linear and rotational motions in sport and exercise
3. Demonstrate an ability to perform simple calculations associated with analyses of movements in sport and exercise
4. Describe categories of human movement and understand the anatomical basis for the production of movement
5. Demonstrate basic competence in data presentation, analysis and interpretation, numeracy, information retrieval and written communication.

Module Description

This module introduces learners to sports therapy, placing it within the context of healthcare in Ireland and the UK and within other health care delivery systems. The module provides the learners with the necessary underpinning knowledge and fundamental skills to become a sports therapist. Assessments focus on the learners being able to demonstrate the required knowledge base to become a sports therapist. Learners complete First Aid training and certification as part of this module. Certification in first aid is completed through Avalon First Aid training and complies with The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. Course and Assessment must be completed every 2 years as per industry best practice.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Describe the development of sports therapy and its place in the delivery of healthcare
2. Explore the concept of professionalism and reflective practice within sports therapy
3. Use appropriate communication skills to undertake a subjective assessment and record it appropriately
4. Select and demonstrate a range of massage techniques
5. Describe the theory and implementation of thermal modalities in sports therapy
6. Deliver first aid in a sporting environment having obtained a recognised first aid qualification

Module Description

This module explores the key theories in sport psychology, covering a wide range of sport psychology topics and the mental skills used within those topics. Psychological issues relating to individual behaviour patterns will be studied in detail. The impact of psychological factors on sports participation and performance will be explored with particular emphasis on consider the impact of injury and rehabilitation on psychological wellbeing of the athlete. The concepts of motivation, behaviour change, goal setting and identity.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of the main branches of psychology and their application to sports therapy
2. Describe how psychology may be used to improve sports performance
3. Describe how sports psychology concepts can be used to improve sports therapy and rehabilitation processes
4. Formulate and present ideas and arguments, using scientific evidence including findings from academic resources for example books and journal papers to support claims
5. Use the key skills of retrieval of information, communication identifying and solving problems

Module Description

This module introduces learners to the anatomy and physiology of the human body with direct reference to sports therapy. The module will cover appendicular and axial anatomy, cardio-vascular-pulmonary anatomy and physiology, integumentary, peripheral, and central nervous system anatomy, and physiology. Common pathophysiological sporting disorders associated with the systems will be considered.

Aims

The module aims to provide the learners with an understanding of the basic human anatomy and physiology. The learners will learn the coupling of structure with function through a series of lectures, tutorials, and practicals.
Problem based learning will allow learners to explore the presentations of common sports injuries that can affect the body systems covered.
Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Describe the processes associated with inflammation, healing, and repair of body tissues
2. Demonstrate anatomical knowledge of the human body, with particular focus on the musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems
3. Demonstrate understanding of systems physiology with particular focus on muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems
4. Relate knowledge of anatomy and physiology to exercise and fitness
5. Describe and palpate anatomical structures associated with common sports injuries

Module Description

In this module we will focus on the acute and chronic adaptations to exercise and training of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems and consider how each system contributes to limitations of human performance. We will explore how the nervous and endocrine systems integrate the response to exercise and training. We will also explore differences in response and adaptation between adult and paediatric participants in exercise.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Describe the structure and function of the cardiovascular, pulmonary, muscular and endocrine systems
2. Discuss the responses of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems to an acute exercise bout
3. Evaluate the roles of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems in the limitation of human exercise performance
4. Discuss the responses of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems to an exercise training programme
5. Explain how the nervous and endocrine systems co-ordinate the acute and chronic responses to exercise
6. Show competence in collection, collation and analysis of data from various physiological practicals.

Module Description

Building on Introduction to Sports Therapy, this module develops learners’ skills in assessment, evaluation and diagnosis of sports and exercise injuries.
The module will consist of taught sessions to introduce key concepts of examination, assessment and diagnosis of sports and exercise injuries. It will develop the skills of clinical examination and assessment of peripheral and spinal regions. Problem based learning will allow learners to explore the presentations and treatment of common sports related injuries acknowledging the process and timings of healing and repair.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Plan and carry out a relevant and justified subjective and objective assessment of a patient / client with a given sport and exercise related injury and subjective presentation.
2. Make a reasoned clinical diagnosis based on subjective and objective findings while considering differential diagnoses
3. Discuss the role of the Sports Therapist in the assessment and management of sport and exercise related injury as part of a multi-disciplinary team
4. Clinically assess and evaluate function of peripheral joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons.
5. Clinically assess and evaluate function of spinal movements and joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons

Module Description

This module focuses on functional rehabilitation within the practice of sports therapy. Learners will gain the underpinning knowledge and practical ability to screen for injuries, interpret the findings and implement a pre-habilitation programme to help reduce the risk of injury. Learners will be able to plan, implement and deliver rehabilitation and remedial programmes suitable for the early, intermediate, late and pre-discharge stages of any common sports injury.

Learners will develop their abilities to prescribe and deliver progressive exercise programmes. They will be able to make reasoned decisions in the selection of exercise focused on: flexibility, endurance, strength, power / speed, skill and co-ordination. Return to sport, warm-up and cool down will be explored. Within this module learners will explore the participation of specific populations in exercise and sport, including: the elderly, children and those with disabilities.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Demonstrate, justify and critique the use of exercise for injury prevention, progressive return to function, rehabilitation and performance enhancement.
2. Design, implement and evaluate appropriate individual and group rehabilitation programmes for a given patient(s) / client(s).
3. Outline the key components of fitness / functional capacity and discuss how these may be improved with exercise.
4. Prescribe, evaluate and analyse exercise performance to provide effective feedback to the performer.

Module Description

This module develops the learners’ knowledge, understanding and skills in treatments available to sports therapists in their practice. Maitland’s and Mulligan’s philosophies of manual therapy will be explored. Therapeutic modalities will include soft tissue techniques and other manual techniques, including spinal and peripheral joint mobilisations. The use of taping will also be considered. Learners will learn to undertake a reasoned approach in their practice of sport and exercise injuries closely based on typical healing times and recovery.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the [learner] will be able to:

1. Select and demonstrate the application of a range of therapeutic techniques. Discuss the physiological and biomechanical effects of manual therapy on the musculoskeletal system.
2. nterpret findings to formulate and develop a manual therapy treatment plan Provide a clinically reasoned argument for the selection of a range of therapeutic techniques
3. Demonstrate ability to administer peripheral joint mobilisations and an awareness of precautions and contraindications when administering peripheral joint mobilisations.
4. Demonstrate ability to administer spinal joint mobilisations and an awareness of precautions and contraindications when administering spinal joint mobilisations.

Module Description

This module offers learners the opportunity to undertake an in- depth piece of work focused on a Sports Therapy topic of their choice. The Research Project may take various forms of empirical research, employing different kinds of methods and methodologies such as surveys, interviewing or processing secondary data. The project provides an opportunity to apply the research methods covered during their course.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Formulate a problem relevant to Sports Therapy.
2. Review relevant literature (this may be theory, research studies, official statistics, policy documents etc.)
3. Follow through an investigation which will involve designing a piece of empirical research (considering the key methodological issues, risks and ethical issues)
4. Incorporate relevant knowledge and skills from other parts of their degree including theoretical, methodological, analytical or substantive elements
5. Using available evidence, develop an argument, and write up their material in a coherent and well-presented dissertation and produce a conference quality poster.

Module Description

Building on Sports Therapy modules in years 1 & 2 this module introduces learners to advanced therapeutic modalities including electrical (neuromuscular electrical stimulation, transcutaneous electrical stimulation, interferential), mechanical (ultrasound), electromagnetic (laser). The focus is on learners developing their use of clinical reasoning to ensure they can justify their approach to treatment using the appropriate evidence base.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Understand and critically analyse the main philosophies of practice in electrotherapy modalities
2. Understand the principles and practice of maintaining electrical safety in relation to the usage of electro-medical apparatus.
3. Apply the mediums of ultrasound, interferential, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapies safely and effectively to traumatised tissues.

Module Description

Building on Sports Therapy modules in years 1 & 2 this module introduces learners to advanced  therapeutic modalities including electrical (neuromuscular electrical stimulation, transcutaneous electrical stimulation, interferential), mechanical (ultrasound), electromagnetic (laser). The focus is on learners developing their use of clinical reasoning to ensure they can justify their approach to treatment using the appropriate evidence base.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Understand and critically analyse the main philosophies of practice in electrotherapy modalities
2. Understand the principles and practice of maintaining electrical safety in relation to the usage of electro-medical apparatus.
3. Apply the mediums of ultrasound, interferential, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapies safely and effectively to traumatised tissues.

Module Description

This module is delivered in the final year of the BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree alongside.
A case-based approach to assessment and management of sports injuries will be used to explore the evidence behind both assessment and management strategies currently employed. This module will explore the evidence base for the management of sports injuries using a regional, case-based approach. Learners will have opportunities to further refine their clinical skills. They will build on their initial learning in relation to first aid and consider more advanced emergency and trauma management.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Justify and demonstrate critical understanding of appropriate assessments for a range of sports specific injuries with a thorough understanding of the best current literature;
2. Plan, carry out and evaluate critically sports specific pre- screening assessment;
3. Plan sports specific pre-habilitation strategies with critical evaluation of published material;
4. Justify critically and outline specific rehabilitation programmes for a range of sports injuries;
5. Justify and demonstrate critical understanding of appropriate interventions for a range of sports specific injuries with a thorough understanding of the best current literature.

Module Description

Learners will undertake 200 hours of supervised clinical placement in a sport and/or exercise related environment. At least 50 of these hours will take place in the Learner Sports clinic. 10% of placement hours can be acquired during first and second years following successful completion of the modules. Learners will be supported in obtaining and undertaking further supervised placement activities outside of the Institute. Portobello Institute understand the importance of securing placements for learners so that they can compound their academic learning with hands on practical experiences. Portobello Institute have an arrangement with several organisations that accommodate our learners during their placement. Theses placements are assigned to learners based on their geographical home address and individual needs. Programme managers will support them through this aspect of learning and assessment. Placement Supervisors are nominated by each placement and mentor the learners whilst on placement. They also complete a report on the placement and return to the Programme manager on completion of the placement.

On completion of this module learners will be able to demonstrate achievement of the Society of Sports Therapists Standards of Proficiency drawing on their learning from the experience undertaking this module and other modules within the course.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the standards of proficiency expected of a sports therapist.
2. Demonstrate the skills required of a sports therapist in practice
3. Use evidence critically to ask and answer appropriate clinical questions to improve their sports therapy practice
4. Evidence plans for their future continuing professional development by reflecting critically upon their current, knowledge, understanding and practice
5. Have undertaken at least 200 hours of supervised practice

Module Description

Building on Sports Therapy modules in years 1 & 2, this module will explore and expand on basic First Aid scenarios for both pitch/courtside and treatment rooms with an emphasis on the management of traumatic sports injuries and Emergency Action Plan for Sports Therapist.
Practical scenarios include, but not limiting to the conscious but unresponsive, unconscious both breathing and non-breathing, spinal injury, AED, recovery positions, choking and varying types of bleeding.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the learner will be able to:

1. Complete structured, logical assessment and treatment skills essential to the management of traumatic sports injuries.
2. Critically reflect on incident/s that required Sports Trauma intervention.
3. Effectively conduct primary and secondary surveys; Competently manage spinal immobilization, spinal injury, suction devices
4. Competently deal with a range of Sports Trauma scenarios.