Unit outline_

EXSS4022: Projects in Exercise Physiology

Semester 2b, 2025 [Professional practice] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit provides students with the opportunity to plan, manage and implement a project that targets a real world service gap identified by a health sector industry partner. Working in small teams and under the guidance of an industry mentor and work integrated learning academic, students will apply their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify, research and analyse solutions to a service gap and communicate their findings with the industry partner. Through this non clinical project opportunity, students will broaden their perspective on current and future roles and scope of exercise physiology practice in the health sector.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Movement Sciences
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
EXSS3073
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Tim Davies, timothy.davies@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 3 October 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Written work hurdle task group assignment Project Report Part 1
Introduction/background/context and methods of the project
25% Mid-semester break
Due date: 03 Oct 2025 at 23:59
1,500 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
In-person practical or creative task hurdle task Work, Health and Safety Form
Completion of Work, Health and Safety checklist before on-site work.
0% Week 01
Due date: 21 Sep 2025 at 23:59
Standard proforma - 1 page AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO3
Written work hurdle task group assignment Group Charter
Agreed contract on task allocation and communication style
0% Week 01
Due date: 21 Sep 2025 at 23:59
2 pages using template AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3
Written work hurdle task group assignment Project Plan
Agreed project plan outlining the deliverable(s) and plan for the project.
0% Week 01
Due date: 21 Sep 2025 at 23:59
2 pages using template AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3
Written work hurdle task Reflection 1 - Project Mid-Point
Structured reflection from the beginning of the project to the mid-point
10% Week 02
Due date: 26 Sep 2025 at 23:59
300 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4
Written work hurdle task Reflection 2 - Project Conclusion
Structured reflection from the project mid-point to conclusion
20% Week 04
Due date: 19 Oct 2025 at 23:59
300 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4
Creative work hurdle task group assignment Deliverable Submission
Submission of the completed deliverable as proof of project completion.
0% Week 04
Due date: 19 Oct 2025 at 23:59
Variable AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3
Written work hurdle task group assignment Project Report Part 2
Project Results and Conclusions
25% Week 04
Due date: 19 Oct 2025 at 23:59
1,500 words AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Presentation hurdle task group assignment Project Presentation
Presenting what was accomplished, key issues and lessons from the project.
20% Week 04
Due date: 15 Oct 2025 at 09:00
~15 minutes AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
hurdle task = hurdle task ?
group assignment = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

The assessments in this unit of study follow a continuous assessment ideology which allows the accumulation of assessment material throughout the unit:

  • Group Charter and Project Plan (Barrier, 0%): A group charter is an agreement on the responsibilities of each group member. The project plan is an agreed process for the progression of the project each week. The group charter and project plan are developed in the briefing session and are due for submission at the end of the briefing week. Both tasks are barrier tasks and must be approved by the teaching team before beginning project activities. Formative feedback will be given to students to assist their development.
  • Work, Health and Safety Checklist: Completion of a work, health and safety checklist confirms the site has inducted you into their space. This is a requirement of all placement units of study.
  • Reflective Journal (30%): A deep reflection on the challenges encountered with specific reference to project planning, management and implementation and descriptions of approaches to solve such issues. Students must maintain appropriate ethical and social responsibilities, cultural awareness and professional practice incorporating the principles, legislation, regulations, rights and responsibilities underpinning the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice. The reflective journal consists of two entries throughout the project period due in weeks 4 (15%) and 6 (15%) of the intensive, respectively. Students have an opportunity to practice reflecting within a formative task that occurs during the briefing week.
  • Presentation (20%): The purpose of this assessment is to provide an overall picture of the student's project experience to a wider audience. Members of staff from the Faculty, as well as prospective students, will be invited to attend. This is an opportunity for the student to present the knowledge and experience they have gained, and the relevance for their learning within their degree and to the scope of practice of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) and their potential future work as an AEP within the Australian health care system framework. The final mark for the presentation is an individual mark comprising of individual and group components.
  • Project Report (50%): This assessment is the culmination of the project experience, combining the student’s learning from their previous assessments with the skills and knowledge they have gained on the project within the context of their program and to the scope of practice of an AEP and their potential future work as an AEP within the Australian health care system framework. The project report is split into two phases. Phase 1 (25%) is due in week 4 of the intensive and consists of the introduction/background/context of your project and the methods by which your project is being completed. Phase 2 (25%) is due in week 6 of the intensive and consists of your results and conclusions/recommendations from your project.
  • Project Deliverable (0%): Submission of the final deliverable from working with the site.

All assessments must be attempted in this unit of study by submitting written tasks through Canvas and presenting during the presentation task. Failure to attempt an assessment will result in an Absent Fail (AF) grade.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas within the “Assignments” tab.

Assessment criteria

Result Name Mark Range (%) Description
High Distinction 85 – 100 Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard, as defined by the marking rubrics for each assessment.
Distinction 75 – 84 Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard, as defined by the marking rubrics for each assessment.
Credit 65 – 74 Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard, as defined by the marking rubrics for each assessment.
Pass 50 – 64 Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard, as defined by the marking rubrics for each assessment.
Fail 0 – 49 When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard, as defined by the marking rubrics for each assessment.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date: Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date. After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Face-to-face briefing activity Workshop (5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Meeting with Academic Mentor Tutorial (0.5 hr) LO2 LO4
Project Week 1 - Investigating and Researching Placement (12 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Week 02 Meeting with academic mentor Tutorial (0.5 hr) LO2 LO4
Project Week 2 - Investigating and Researching Placement (12 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Week 03 Meeting with academic mentor Tutorial (0.5 hr) LO2 LO4
Project Week 3 - Analysis and Result Interpretation Placement (12 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Week 04 Meeting with academic mentor Tutorial (0.5 hr) LO2 LO4
Project Week 4 - Closing and Presenting Placement (12 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Debriefing Workshop (1 hr) LO4

Attendance and class requirements

Students must attend the briefing, debriefing and presentation sessions throughout their project placement. They must actively participate in individual and group learning activities, with guidance and support from academic and external supervisory staff.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

There are no prescribed readings for this unit of study.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Identify current and future roles and scope of exercise physiology practice in the broader health workplace.
  • LO2. Apply communication and teamwork strategies to effectively engage with others in a professional environment.
  • LO3. Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to plan, manage and implement a project within an agreed timeframe.
  • LO4. Engage in critical reflection and analysis of experiences to identify personal and professional gains from learning opportunities.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Accredited Exercise Physiologist Professional Standards (2023) - ESSA
1.2.1. Practise with integrity within the scope of practice for an AEP, the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, and jurisdictional Codes of Conduct.
LO2
Accredited Exercise Physiologist Professional Standards (2023) - ESSA
1.2.3. Differentiate and select verbal and non-verbal communication strategies that are contextually appropriate, timely, accessible, and respectful to clients, population groups, and relevant others.
LO3
Accredited Exercise Physiologist Professional Standards (2023) - ESSA
1.2.6. Practise collaboratively and effectively with other professionals, including seeking feedback and input to inform decision-making, delegating tasks, and referring to other professionals and services where appropriate.
LO4
Accredited Exercise Physiologist Professional Standards (2023) - ESSA
1.2.7. Develop reflective practices through self-reflection, seeking and engaging with feedback from colleagues and clients, critically evaluating service delivery and outcomes, and engaging in ongoing learning.
Accredited Exercise Physiologist Professional Standards (2023) -
Competency code Taught, Practiced or Assessed Competency standard
1.2.1 A Practise with integrity within the scope of practice for an AEP, the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, and jurisdictional Codes of Conduct.
1.2.3 A Differentiate and select verbal and non-verbal communication strategies that are contextually appropriate, timely, accessible, and respectful to clients, population groups, and relevant others.
1.2.6 A Practise collaboratively and effectively with other professionals, including seeking feedback and input to inform decision-making, delegating tasks, and referring to other professionals and services where appropriate.
1.2.7 A Develop reflective practices through self-reflection, seeking and engaging with feedback from colleagues and clients, critically evaluating service delivery and outcomes, and engaging in ongoing learning.

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Feedback from 2024's offering and the 2025 offering has now included an stage reflection assessment with increasing stakes as the project moves forward. Further, the scheduling of the unit now better reflects other activities that are occurring as part of the 4th year Exercise Physiology program (i.e. Health Collaboration Challenge).

This unit of study outline must be read in conjunction with the Medicine and Health Handbook: https://www.sydney.edu.au/handbooks/medicine_health/ 

All students are required to familiarise themselves with their academic responsibilities, and the academic policies governing their enrolment and progression. The handbook provides a direct link to the University of Sydney’s Coursework policy and Faculty provisions.

When considering applications and appeals relating to these matters, it will be assumed that students understand their academic responsibilities and are familiar with these key policies and procedures

The Work Integrated Learning Canvas site also provides information specific to Sydney School of Health Sciences placements such as essential preparation, forms and policies.

https://canvas.sydney.edu.au/courses/9121 

Work, health and safety

https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/study-medicine-and-health/study-areas/health-sciences/placements.html 

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.