Embodiment in VR – Motor Learning of a Novel Knot Tying Task – Tajda Svetek.

1. What was your role during the internship? (Key responsibilities and tasks…)

Under the supervision of Prof. Mark Campbell, I investigated how different perspectives in Virtual Reality (VR) influence motor skill performance during an Action Observation Motor Imagery (AOMI) intervention. Following an extensive literature review, I designed and administered the experiment with technical support from the LERO lab. The resulting data was then analysed and visually represented to draw meaningful conclusions. My final task involved synthesising these findings into a journal-quality research paper, aimed for submission to the Psychology of Sport and Exercise Journal.

2. How did the internship help you grow professionally and personally? (Lessons learnt…)

Professionally, this internship significantly advanced the research and interpersonal skills established during my Master’s in Sport Psychology. Collaborating with professors and fellow researchers exposed me to the high standards and expectations of professional academic research. I also enhanced key personal and professional competencies, particularly in communication, organisation, and project independence. Since the role required extensive participant recruitment, I developed high organizational skills to structure my days around the experimental schedule, which ensured the efficient use of the Lero Lab’s equipment and facilities.

3. Did you face any challenges during your internship? (If so, how did you overcome them?

A key challenge involved achieving the requisite participant volume to ensure high statistical power, a common difficulty in experimental research. I successfully developed a targeted recruitment strategy that required strong persuasive and expository communication. This allowed me to clearly articulate the study’s value and ethical parameters to potential participants, ultimately leading to full enrollment.

4. How did your supervisor/the departments work environment contribute to your experience?

The internship was defined by the structured mentorship provided by my supervisor, Prof. Mark Campbell, who offered accessible guidance and actively facilitated connections with key individuals. I was successfully integrated into the Lero Lab’s collaborative research environment, where PhD students and fellow researchers provided valuable insights and specialised suggestions that significantly refined my project methodology. This constant access to expertise ensured project continuity, facilitated rapid problem-solving, and ultimately accelerated my learning of advanced research protocols.

5. Did you have opportunities to network with other professionals in the industry?

I proactively connected with fellow researchers and PhD students specialising in the same field. This outreach provided invaluable external insight, deepening my understanding of the research landscape beyond the scope of my core project. This expanded professional network allowed me to continuously enrich my knowledge base and gain a broader perspective on current research.

6. How has this internship influenced your career goals or future plans?

Successfully completing this internship provided invaluable strategic insight into the structure of doctoral research. This hands-on experience has effectively positioned me for future advanced academic exploration and has clarified my intent to pursue a higher level of education.

7. What advice would you give to future interns applying for this program?

I strongly recommend this research opportunity for any individual seeking to deepen their knowledge base, explore research interests, or clarify their path toward a PhD. As a highly independent project, it provides unparalleled flexibility in execution while instilling full ownership and responsibility for project completion. The internship significantly expandes one’s professional network and future career prospects.

Tajda Svetek, completed a PESS Research Internship in the Department of Physical Education & Sport Sciences, University of Limerick.