Faculty of Health

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

10-12 March 2014

Interactive Viva either 28 /29 April 2014

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

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.

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

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

Assessment

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