The course adopts a practical and research-oriented methodology, centred on the design and development of research projects in sports management. Learning is organised around active participation, critical analysis and the application of quantitative and qualitative methods.

The teaching approach combines:

• Workshops and seminars to present core theoretical concepts and methodological frameworks and to practise with statistical and qualitative analysis techniques.

• Case studies and problem-based tasks to develop challenge-based learning and critical thinking.

• Individual and group activities, including presentations of specific concepts and mini-research tasks.

• Guided development of a research proposal, aligned with the course objectives and the potential for doctoral research.

Annotation: within the schedule set by the centre or degree programme, 15 minutes of one class will be reserved for students to evaluate their lecturers and their courses or modules through questionnaires.

Attendance to seminars and workshops accounts for 20% of the grade. This focuses on active participation: attending sessions, engaging in discussions, completing in-class tasks, and contributing to group work on methods, case studies, and research design. The aim is to ensure students develop methodological skills through hands-on practice.

The literature review also accounts for 20%. Students produce a written review of scientific literature on a sports management topic, demonstrating systematic search and selection of peer-reviewed sources, critical analysis, identification of research gaps, and construction of a coherent theoretical framework. This is a core skill for researchers and essential for framing research questions and preparing for doctoral work.

The research project is the final component and typically carries the largest weight (often around 40%). Students design a full research proposal or small empirical project, including questions/hypotheses, objectives, theoretical framework, methodology, data collection and analysis plan, ethical considerations, and expected contributions. It is assessed on coherence, methodological soundness, feasibility, and relevance, and serves as a potential foundation for doctoral research.

The research outcomes presentation is another related 20%. Students present orally, with visual support, the outcomes of a research-related task (e.g. mini-study results, case analysis, or part of their project). It is assessed on clarity, structure, explanation of methods and results, critical reflection, and quality of communication and visuals. This develops the ability to communicate research professionally.