Overview

Module content

This module focuses on the primary theme of modifying/changing behaviour through application of models and principles of behaviour change to impact on health and well-being.

It will teach the theories underpinning behaviour change and students will discover how to apply specific models and principles to improve the long term health of service users.

Students will be taught how to recognise the signs of non-adherence and how to select the most appropriate behaviour change model/principles to suit particular population groups (inactive, obese, elderly).

Students will be encouraged to access current research and with the teaching components, will be able to apply the knowledge and skills gained to their own practice.

This module will be suitable for a range of health care and exercise professionals whose role involves improving and maintaining the health and well-being of service users.

Dates

Please email sahp.postgraduate-admin@keele.ac.uk for the confirmed course dates.

Deadline for applications is 2 weeks prior to module start date.  Applying before this is recommended as spaces are awarded on a first come first served basis (assuming conditions of offers are met). 

Module aims

Module aims

The module aims to equip healthcare and exercise professionals with the theoretical and practical knowledge required to enable them to effectively apply the principles of behaviour change to their particular practice.

Module learning outcomes/objectives

• Critically evaluate the primary factors involved in changing risky behaviours relating to health and well-being
• Select, deconstruct and differentiate prominent models of behaviour change
• Evaluate the application of models and principles of behaviour change in practice so as to assess their impact on health and well-being
• Apply and integrate principles of behaviour change into the healthcare and exercise setting to positively impact on health and well-being of service users

Entry requirements

Applicants would typically have a 1st degree (minimum 2:2) or equivalent for international students, be a member of a recognised professional organisation or possess significant relevant workplace experience.

Applicants are normally expected to be Health Care Professionals, Sport and Exercise scientists, Exercise professionals, Sports therapists.

Module content

The course will cover theories, models and principles of behaviour change; awareness of risky behaviours including why service users maintain risky behaviours that may have a detrimental impact on health. Also factors that influence positive behaviour change will be discussed as well as socioeconomic and/or cultural factors that may contribute as a facilitator or barrier to behaviour change.

Evaluation theories and application of behaviour change models and principles to specific populations (inactive, obese, elderly) within the context of health and well-being. Evaluation of the evidence base of such models and principles will also be included.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

Delivered through lectures, workshops, role play and expanded upon through student's independent learning.

Assessment

• 50% of marks - an essay of 2500 words
• 50% of marks - an interactive viva