The challenges and opportunities of teaching sport and exercise psychology at a distance

Distance learning continues to increase in popularity as a teaching method in higher education, but its implementation requires careful planning and consideration. Whilst delivering effective distance learning can be challenging, if planned effectively it can provide great opportunities to both the student and academic that are not always available in face-to-face settings. This article examines the challenges and opportunities of teaching sport and exercise psychology at a distance, using the example of a successful sport and exercise psychology module at the Open University, a UK university specialising in distance education. The flexibility offered by distance learning and the consequent diversity of students are discussed along with the important role of the tutor in ensuring the success of sport and exercise psychology distance learning. Strategies to encourage an applied understanding of the topic area and minimise the perceived distance between students are also considered.