Specialization Swimming I

Specialization / Direction

General Foundation

The course is also offered to exchange programme students.

Upon successful completion of this course, students are expected to have acquired: Knowledge of: - The principles of hydrodynamics and the general biomechanical principles of swimming. - Teaching methods for all swimming styles and the application of competitive swimming techniques. - The selection of appropriate preparatory exercises that facilitate the learning of swimming techniques and the strategies for improving the technical performance of swimmers. - The integration of theory and practice in the teaching of swimming technique and the prioritization of technical errors in the evaluation of swimmers. - Current competitive swimming regulations. - The synthesis of knowledge from physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and teaching/pedagogy to design improved and innovative programs and methods for enhancing swimming performance. Skills: - Data analysis and identification of issues related to swimming instruction, along with the development of appropriate strategies to address them. - Design, documentation, and evaluation of technique-learning programs based on contemporary scientific and pedagogical approaches. - Development of leadership and management skills for both groups and individual athletes, with a concurrent understanding of their needs and emotional states. Abilities: - Ability to work independently as well as to collaborate effectively in the context of delivering successful swimming lessons. - Initiative-taking and a strong sense of responsibility to ensure the smooth operation and progress of a swimming team. - Critical evaluation and adjustment of technical training programs when deemed necessary. - Development of creative thinking and adaptability in the constantly evolving and demanding environments of competitive swimming.

Course Purpose and Description The purpose of this course is to cultivate a comprehensive and holistic understanding of all swimming styles and to provide a complete and systematic instruction in the discipline of swimming. Particular emphasis is placed on the historical development of swimming, the principles of flotation and propulsion, the teaching of various swimming styles and techniques, starts and turns, the biomechanical analysis of swimming techniques—including starts and turns—and the official rules governing swimming and competition organization. The course is structured around a dual approach: on the one hand, it incorporates theoretical analysis of the fundamental physical principles underlying swimming; on the other, it emphasizes the practical application of these principles, taking into account the pedagogical dimension of the educational process and the specific needs of participants. The course content is organized into three main units: (a) an introductory unit, which presents the history of swimming and the principles of flotation; (b) a unit focused on managing participants during the learning process, aimed at enhancing instructional effectiveness; and (c) a practical unit, which involves the implementation of the full syllabus through experiential learning and hands-on training. Course Objectives The course aims to: - Introduce the sport of swimming. - Organize safe swimming lessons in aquatic facilities. - Apply pedagogical approaches to teaching swimming. - Connect theoretical knowledge with the practical application of biomechanical principles in swimming. - Enhance the swimming proficiency of participants. Week – Content – Learning Outcomes Week 1 – Introduction – History – Facilities – Organization of Swimming (Knowledge) Week 2 – Swimming Regulations (Knowledge) Week 3 – Buoyancy & Propulsion (Knowledge) Week 4 – Freestyle – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 5 – Backstroke – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 6 – Breaststroke – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 7 – Butterfly – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 8 – Individual Medley – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 9 – Starts – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 10 – Turns – Technique – Preparatory Exercises (Knowledge – Skill – Ability) Week 11 – Planning and Organization of Swimming Technique Lessons – Understanding the specific requirements of organizing a swimming club to optimize athletes’ swimming performance; development of instructional ideas (Skill – Ability) Week 12 – Swimming Pool: Practice – Application of swimming techniques and feedback (Skill – Ability) Week 13 – Final Project Presentations. Overall Review of Learning Outcomes and Evaluation – Presentation, critique, and assessment (Ability) Teaching Methods - The course will be delivered through a variety of active learning approaches, including: - Lectures accompanied by in-class participatory discussions. - Group work in small, interdisciplinary teams, fostering collaborative learning. - Development of oral presentation skills through experiential exercises conducted within the classroom setting. Learning Resources & Materials Students will have access to a range of academic resources, primarily provided through the e-learning platform. These educational materials will include: weekly study notes, recommended supplementary literature for further in-depth exploration, and selected case studies relevant to the sport of swimming.

25-06-2025