Qualitative Analysis of Human Movement

The aims for this module are set into the context of the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications and they relate to the SEEC level descriptors for level 4 study.

• To introduce the four-task model of qualitative analysis (Knudson & Morrison, 2002) and the important issues within each task.
• To introduce fundamental motor movements as building blocks of movement in PE and sport.
• To explain the importance of the basic principles of biomechanics in relation to correct technique.
• To enable students to carry out qualitative analysis of movements, from a variety of activity areas, in order to improve competence and performance.
• To introduce the use of ICT to enhance the effectiveness of qualitative analysis.

In relation to the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications and the SEEC level descriptors for level 4 study, by the end of the module students should be able to:

1. Describe the four-task model of qualitative analysis (Knudson & Morrison, 2002) and important issues within each task.
2. Recognise the existence of fundamental movements in analysing a variety of activity areas.
3. Explain the basic biomechanical principles of motion in relation to the correct technique in a number of different activity areas.
4. Effectively carry out a qualitative analysis of a movement, from within an activity area, integrating the four tasks of preparation, observation, evaluation /diagnosis and intervention, with the intention to improve competence and performance.
5. Competently use ICT to enhance the effectiveness of qualitative analysis.

Students will be exposed to key lectures outlining the four-task model of qualitative analysis and the biomechanical principles of motion in relation to correct technique.  Application of this knowledge will then be developed through a number of practical workshops where students can observe, analyse and evaluate a variety of performance levels, in a variety of activity areas.

• The four-task model of qualitative analysis.
• Stages of motor development in children.
• Preparation – Gathering Relevant Knowledge: knowledge of activity, critical features, goal of the movement, knowledge of performers.
• Observation – Developing a Systematic Observational Strategy: key elements in a systematic observational strategy, focus of observation, situation, vantage points, number of observations, extended observation, integrated use of all senses.
• Evaluation/Diagnosis – Critical Thinking Within Qualitative Analysis: evaluation of performance, difficulties in evaluation, range of correctness of critical features, prioritising intervention, rationale of prioritising.
• Intervention – Strategies for Improving Performance: feedback, visual models, exaggeration, modifying the task, manual/mechanical guidance, principles for providing feedback.
• Biomechanical Principles of Motion: direction of force application, combined influence of force and the time of application, summation of body segment velocities, sequencing of joints, optimal projection, centre of gravity, stability, production of rotational motion, rotational motion manipulation, contribution of rotation to linear velocity.
• Videotape Replay within Qualitative Analysis: video technology, making videos, video analysis computer software, Siliconcoach.

Contact time:

• Keynote lectures
• Practical workshops

Non-contact time:

• Directed reading
• Completion of tutor led practical workshops and computer based tasks
• Preparation for qualitative analysis and presentation
• Exam preparation

Books:

Bartlett, R. (2007). Introduction to Sports Biomechanics – Analysing Human Movement Patterns. London: Routledge.

Carr, G. (2009). Sport Mechanics for Coaches. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Elliot, B.C. (2001) Biomechanics of sport.  In F. S. Pyke (ed).  Better Coaching – Advanced Coach’s Manual. 2nd edition. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Galahue, D. and Ozmun, J. (2002) Understanding Motor Development. 5th edition. London: McGraw-Hill.

Knudson, D.V. & Morrison, C. S. (2002) Qualitative Analysis of Human Movement.  Leeds: Human Kinetics.

Lees, A. (2008) “Qualitative Biomechanical Analysis of Technique” in Hughes, M and Franks, I.M. (Ed). The Essentials of Performance Analysis – An Introduction. London: Routledge.

McGinnis, P.M. (2005). Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise. 2nd edition. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Journals:

Sanders, R. and Wilson, B. (1990). “Some biomechanical tips for better teaching and coaching”, New Zealand Journal of Health, PE & Recreation, 24, pp 16 – 21. 

Electronic sources:

Coaches Info, Information and Education for Coaches www.coachesinfo.com/ Accessed April 2011 

Other:

The Physical Education Association – Observing Children Moving CD-Rom

School home:

Chelsea School of Sport