PED 440 - SELECTED TOPICS IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION
PROFESSOR C. SUE COMBS, PH. D.

OFFICE:           TRASK 146
PHONE:            962-3262
FAX:                  962-7073
E-MAIL:           COMBSC@UNCWIL.EDU

Purpose of PED 440:  The purpose of this course is to carefully examine in a seminar format, principles in exercise science by reading, discussing , and analyzing related research in the various fields of exercise science (physical education).  The content of this course will vary based on student and faculty interest.

Student Learning Outcomes: (Objectives):  Specific student learning outcomes for this course are listed below with examples of specific skills/behaviors that will be emphasized.  After successfully completing this course, the learner will demonstrate acquisition of behaviors, knowledge and skills necessary to:

1.  Demonstrate a competent understanding of the relevant literature in exercise science by:
    Reading, discussing, and critiquing relevant literature
    Deriving implications for learning and application from the literature

2.  Write coherent and comprehensive abstracts of selected research studies by:
    Learning the components of writing an abstract
    Writing several abstracts on general exercise science topics
    Developing the ability to determine the value or irrelevance of a particular piece of research through
    reflection      
  
3.  Demonstrate Critical thinking skills by:
    Critically reflecting on real issues and problems encountered by discussion and debate for all class members

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

PED 440 Attendance Policy:  Absence from class can only detract from your learning; however, personal circumstances arise that necessitate absence from class on rare occasions.  Therefore, the absence/attendance policy for PED 4400 is as follows:

        Students are expected to attend and be punctual to all classes.  Three percentage points will be deducted after the first absence, and for each absence thereafter from the final grade percentage.  Three tardies will also constitute an absence.  In addition, any student accumulating a total of 3 absences will fail the course.  Any deviation from this policy will be at the discretion of the instructor.

Participation:  Students are expected to fully participate in each and every class.  Readings and assignments are to be done in advance of the lesson.  Most classes will be structured using an active learning format, thus requiring students to fully contribute to the day's learning activities.

Course Assignments:  All course assignments are expected on the scheduled due date.  Late assignments will not be accepted and credit will not be awarded except in extenuating circumstances, at the instructor's discretion.  Note:  An absence does not excuse a student from submitting assignments on time!  Students are always responsible for content covered in class and for all assigned readings.  Students are expected to discuss legitimate conflicts in advance with the instructor.  In addition, students have the option of turning in course assignments no less than 1 week in advance of the due date for feedback and further recommendations prior to submitting the final draft.  All written assignments are to be error free (grammar, punctuation, spelling, composition, etc.).  References should be written in APA format (4th ed.).  Failur to do so will result in a point deduction for the assignment.

Grading Policy:  The final course grade will be determined based upon the following measures of assessment:

        Weekly abstracts
        Midterm exam
        Weekly presentations
        Final exam

    Total     *100%

* You are given the option of determining the weightings, for the above assessments.  A single assessment must be worth a minimum of 15%, not to exceed a maximum of 30%.  Weightings must be determined by the end of the first week of class and may be changed at a later date.

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