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Educational Module

Free Online Course

Combatting online abuse in sport

Developed in collaboration with Dublin City University (DCU), this free, three-week online course provides an accessible introduction to online abuse in sport, exploring its causes, consequences and the practical measures available to address it.

Designed for athletes, officials, coaches, sports administrators, fans and anyone interested in creating safer digital environments, the course combines academic insights with practical knowledge to help participants recognise online abuse, understand their rights and responsibilities, and contribute to meaningful change.

With just two hours of learning per week, participants can study at their own pace and may be eligible for a digital certificate upon completion.

To date, over 380 learners from around the world have enrolled in the course.

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Educational Module

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge to Understand. Tools to Act.

From recognising harmful online behaviour to exploring legal responses and prevention strategies, the course provides a foundation for understanding and addressing online abuse in sport.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  1. Recognise Online Abuse

    Understand what online abuse is and why it’s important to stop it.

  2. Understand the Dynamics

    Analyse, assess and evaluate the definitions, types and triggers of online abuse.

  3. Explore Legal Responses

    Understand the legal approaches and challenges associated with online abuse.

  4. Identify Solutions

    Evaluate the ways in which online abuse can be combatted and the roles of key stakeholders.

Course Overview

Three Weeks to Build Your Understanding.

Structured around three progressive modules, the course takes participants from understanding online abuse to exploring the legal frameworks and practical solutions available to address it.

Each week combines expert insights, interactive learning and knowledge checks to reinforce key concepts.

  1. Week 1

    Introduction to Online Abuse in Sport

    Explore what constitutes online abuse, the forms it can take and the factors that contribute to its prevalence in sport. Examine common triggers, identify those most affected and consider the consequences for individuals and the wider sporting community.

    Through discussions, practical examples and a short knowledge check, build a foundation for understanding the issue and its impact.

  2. Week 2

    Legal Responses to Online Abuse in Sport

    Examine how legal frameworks can be used to address online abuse, from criminal and civil law to administrative regulation.

    Explore the responsibilities of individuals, digital platforms and other stakeholders, alongside the challenges of applying and enforcing legislation in online environments.

  3. Week 3

    Combatting Online Abuse in Sport

    Move from understanding the problem to exploring practical solutions. Examine the legal, technological and educational approaches available to prevent, address and reduce online abuse.

    Consider the roles of sporting organisations, the media, digital platforms and individuals in creating safer online environments, and reflect on how these approaches can be applied in practice.