Formula for success: Using an accreditation to excel data literacy in early-career sport performance analysts

Whilst frameworks for the applied practice of Sport Performance Analysis (SPA) are established, a framework for the development of competencies in early-career analysts remains unexplored. Student perceptions on integrating the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Excel accreditation into a first-year SPA university module were gathered to assess the value of professional accreditations for curriculum design. Ten focus groups centred as unstructured forums involving 1st or 2nd year students were held to gather honest reflections on e-lessons, peer–review feedback and the professional accreditation embedded into the module. Following transcription of audio files, thematic analysis was performed collaboratively utilising an inductive approach to identify themes before refining codes deductively. Analysis revealed SPA students enjoyed self-regulating the pace of learning with online resources however not in place of face-to-face sessions. Face-to-face sessions provided a collaborative environment making feedback and support easier to gain, which boosted engagement and learning. Further findings highlighted the importance of accreditation content reflecting industry demands including time constraints and data used. Therefore, as a foundation to developing a competency framework, early-career analysts should prioritise accreditations to objectively demonstrate skill competency. Organisations can use accreditations to validate recruitment processes and continue the development of employees.