Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description

Sports Theory

Main Study Course Information

Course Code
LSPA_202
Branch of Science
Health sciences
ECTS
3.00
Target Audience
Pedagogy; Sports Trainer
LQF
Level 6
Study Type And Form
Full-Time; Part-Time

Study Course Implementer

Course Supervisor
Structure Unit Manager
Structural Unit
Department of Sports Theory
Contacts

LSPA, Brīvības gatve 333, Riga, LV-1006

About Study Course

Objective

To promote the professional competences of students in the development of physical capacity of children, adolescents and young people, in the movement teaching methodology in the implementation of physical activity and the sports component in pre-school and school.

Preliminary Knowledge

Knowledge of the psychology of learning and development, pedagogical process, inclusive education, regulatory framework, socio-emotional learning, human anatomy, physical load, basic movement and the role of sport in society. Skills to plan, organise and manage the learning process, select appropriate learning methods, differentiate training, demonstrate and explain movements, provide a safe learning environment, evaluate performance and reflect on professional activities. Competences to integrate knowledge of pedagogy, psychology and sports science, to create an inclusive learning environment, to make professional and ethical decisions, to cooperate and to improve professional competence.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

1.Is familiar with the theoretical principles of child-centred, safe and developmental development and movement teaching in pre-school and school.

Individual work and tests

Individual work

2.Is familiar with the principles of planning, implementing and evaluating student performance and approaches to physical capacity development and acquisition of mobility skills.

Individual work and tests

Independent work

Skills

1.Assess physical development of children, adolescents and young people and the level of acquisition of movement, plan and adapt the development of future mobility skills and physical abilities according to individual needs.

Individual work and tests

Independent work

2.Explain to children, adolescents and young people the goals, criteria and results of evaluating physical ability and mobility acquisition, communicate professionally and develop positive cooperation, promoting the understanding and motivation of learners.

Individual work and tests

Independent work

Competences

1.Independently plan the implementation of the learning process in the field of sport and health appropriate to the age, individual needs and characteristics of physical development of learners, determining the learning outcomes to be achieved and selecting appropriate learning methods.

Individual work and tests

Independent work Exam

2.Develop and rightly use performance, growth and self-assessment criteria to ensure an objective and development-oriented assessment of learning achievements in the field of sport and health.

Individual work and tests

Exam

3.Analyse and evaluate learning outcomes and development dynamics of learners, identify individual support needs and make professionally sound decisions to improve the learning process.

Individual work and tests

Exam Independent work

Assessment

Individual work

Title
% from total grade
Grade
1.

Individual work

10.00% from total grade
Test

“Assessment of pedagogical problems in the acquisition of movement and the development of physical abilities in the selected study and the chosen age stage.”

Job description:

The student analyses a selected scientific study on the acquisition of movement and the development of physical abilities in the subject “Sports and Health”, identifying the pedagogical problem it discusses at the chosen age stage. The work evaluates the conclusions of the study, their relation to the theory and practice of sports pedagogy, as well as provides a reasoned opinion of the author regarding possible solutions and their application in the educational process.

Fulfilment conditions:

  • choose one scientific study on the acquisition of movement and the development of physical abilities in sports education at school;
  • determine the age stage to be analysed;
  • identify and characterise the problem addressed in the study in sports pedagogy;
  • analyse the causes of the problem, the factors affecting it and possible solutions;
  • to assess the relevance of the study conclusions in the pedagogical practice of sport;
  • formulate reasoned conclusions based on the results of the study;
  • design the work according to the requirements of the academic design.

Evaluation criteria:

  • relevance of the selected study to the subject and age stage of the work;
  • quality of identification and analysis of sports pedagogical problems;
  • linking theoretical findings and study results;
  • the reasoning of the conclusions;
  • compliance with academic design requirements.

Rating scale: The work credited

has been fulfilled in accordance with all the conditions laid down, the study results have been achieved and academic writing requirements have been complied with.

2.

Independent work

10.00% from total grade
Test

“Analysis and evaluation of good practice examples for providing an inclusive environment in an educational institution for learning movements and developing physical abilities.”

Job description:

students in groups analyse theoretical and practical best practice examples for creating an inclusive educational environment for learning movements and developing physical abilities. Based on literature and normative documents, criteria for the assessment of an inclusive educational environment are developed. Using the criteria developed, students shall each evaluate one selected educational institution, analyse the results obtained, formulate conclusions and make proposals for the improvement of the inclusive environment. The results of the work shall be presented in the study group.

Fulfilment conditions:

In the student group, the student shall:

  • research scientific literature, methodological materials and best practice examples on ensuring an inclusive educational environment for learning movements and developing physical abilities;
  • develop criteria for assessing the environment of inclusive education;
  • each student chooses one educational institution and performs an assessment of its situation using the criteria developed by the group;
  • collect and analyse the findings;
  • formulate conclusions and proposals for the improvement of the inclusive environment;
  • prepare and present verbally the results of the work (up to 10 minutes), ensuring the participation of all members of the group.

Evaluation criteria:

  • relevance of the information sources used to the topic of work, quality of analysis of good practice examples and linking theory to the problem under investigation.
  • justification of the criteria for assessment of the inclusive educational environment, compliance with the principles of inclusive education and the specificities of the acquisition of movement.
  • justification for assessment of the situation of the educational institution, consistent use of the criteria developed.
  • reasoning of conclusions and application of the proposals provided in practice.
  • presentation structure, quality of visual material, involvement of each group member and answers to questions.

Rating scale: The credited

work is fulfilled in accordance with the conditions laid down, the assessment of the situation is justified and linked to the theory and the criteria developed, the conclusions and proposals are reasoned, the content of the presentation is appropriate and all members of the group participate in the presentation of the work and answer questions.

3.

Independent work

30.00% from total grade
Test

“Drawing up a plan for the acquisition of movement and development of physical abilities for learners of the chosen age stage”

description of the work:

Within the framework of the independent work, the student shall develop a justified and methodologically structured plan for the acquisition of movements and the development of physical abilities for learners of the chosen age stage. The development of the plan is based on critical evaluation of teaching theories, principles of the competence approach and scientifically sound knowledge of movement teaching and physical capacity development. At the end of the work, the student performs self-assessment of the plan he or she has developed and participates in mutual evaluation by providing reasoned feedback.

Fulfilment conditions:

  • select a specific age stage (e.g. pre-school, primary, primary or secondary);
  • develop a plan for the acquisition of movement and the development of physical capabilities, taking into account the principles of the competence approach; formulate the learning outcomes to be achieved, select appropriate learning methods, organisation forms and evaluation techniques;
  • justify the methodological solutions used in the plan;
  • carry out a self-assessment of its work, assessing the strengths of the plan and the possibilities for improvement;
  • perform mutual evaluation of the work of another student, providing constructive and reasoned feedback.

Evaluation criteria:

  • compliance of the selected age profile with the developed plan;
  • the logic of the plan for the acquisition of movements and the development of physical capabilities and compliance with the competency approach;
  • consistency between learning outcomes, methods and assessment methods;
  • the quality of the literature used and the correct presentation of references;
  • self-assessment reflection quality;
  • the constructiveness of the mutual assessment.

Rating scale:

All the requirements of the performance conditions of the work have been credited, the plan is methodically justified and complies with the competence approach, self-assessment and mutual assessment carried out, the work complies with the principles of academic integrity.

4.

Independent work

20.00% from total grade
Test

“Setting a learning goal for learning and developing physical abilities at the chosen age”

job description:

Within the scope of the work, the student shall set a learning goal, formulate the results to be achieved, select and justify appropriate learning methods, as well as present practical application thereof, ensuring a purposeful and methodologically justified organisation of the learning process.

Fulfilment conditions:

  • a specific age stage for learners has been selected;
  • a formulated learning objective for the acquisition of movement and the development of physical capacity;
  • clear and measurable learning outcomes have been developed;
  • appropriate training methods have been selected to achieve the learning objective;
  • provide a pedagogical justification for the chosen teaching methods;
  • presentation of exercises in the acquisition of movement and the development of physical abilities using the chosen learning methods;
  • the development of the work respects the methodological, organisational and safety principles.

Evaluation criteria:

  • compliance of the learning objective with the chosen age stage and learning content in the acquisition of movement and the development of physical abilities;
  • the accuracy and linkage of learning outcomes to be achieved with the learning goal;
  • the consistency of the chosen teaching methods with the results to be achieved and their pedagogical justification;
  • compliance of exercises with the chosen age stage and intended learning purpose;
  • the quality of the presentation, the methodological justification, the clarity of the instructions given to pupils;
  • compliance with safety requirements and effective timing.

Rating scale: All

the conditions of the task have been met at work, a methodically substantiated description of the part of the hour in the acquisition of movement and development of physical abilities has been developed, appropriate learning methods have been rightly chosen, the fitness of the exercises to the chosen age stage and the learning outcomes to be achieved.

5.

Independent work

10.00% from total grade
Test

“World countries” experience in providing feedback and assessing pupil performance in learning movements and developing physical capacity. "

Job description:

student groups carry out research on the experience of at least three countries around the world in providing feedback and evaluating pupil performance in learning movement and developing physical abilities. The work analyses approaches, evaluation principles, methods used and best practices from different countries, comparing their similarities and differences. The results of the research are collected and presented at the seminar, facilitating the exchange of discussions and experiences.

Fulfilment conditions:

  • explore in a group the experience of at least three countries around the world in providing feedback and assessing pupil performance in learning movement and developing physical capacity;
  • analyse the approaches, evaluation criteria, feedback forms used by each country and their role in the learning process;
  • compare the experience of the selected countries, highlighting the common and different characteristics;
  • prepare a structured presentation and present the results of the work to each member of the group;
  • participate in the discussion and answer questions about the research carried out.

Evaluation criteria:

  • the relevance of the information studied to the subject matter of the work and its credibility;
  • depth and comparison of the experience analysis of the selected countries;
  • the validity of the conclusions and the ability to link theory to practice;
  • the structure, logic and visual design of the presentation;
  • group collaboration and quality of oral presentation, ability to answer questions in a reasoned manner.

Rating scale: A study of

the experience of at least three countries in the world has been included in the group, an analysis and comparison of experience has been carried out, a presentation prepared and presented by all participants in the group has reached at least 60% of the evaluation criteria.

Examination

Title
% from total grade
Grade
1.

Exam

20.00% from total grade
Test

“Demonstration of sports pedagogical skills and competences in the teaching of movements and the development of physical abilities in a modelled pedagogical situation, assessment of their professional skills and pedagogical competence”.

Job description:

The student shall demonstrate the acquired pedagogical knowledge, professional skills and competences in a written examination, analysing and addressing a modelled pedagogical situation in the teaching of movements and the development of physical abilities in a modelled pedagogical situation and case study. The work shall demonstrate the ability to justify pedagogical decisions, to choose methods of teaching and education appropriate to the situation, as well as the ability to reflect on the solutions adopted. Carry out a self-evaluation of his or her professional pedagogical competence by analysing the acquired learning outcomes and professional improvement needs. On the basis of self-assessment, the objectives of professional development, the areas of competence to be developed, shall be determined.

Fulfilment conditions:

  • analyse the proposed or independently selected pedagogical situation (case);
  • identify the problem and its possible causes;
  • develop a pedagogically sound solution to the situation;
  • to substantiate the chosen pedagogical methods and approaches on the basis of pedagogical theory and professional regulatory documents;
  • present and justify their solution by demonstrating professional communication and reflection skills;
  • carry out self-assessment of their professional and pedagogical competences;
  • analyse your strengths and professional competences to be developed.

Evaluation criteria:

  • quality of the analysis of the pedagogical situation;
  • the validity and reasoning of pedagogical decisions;
  • the use of theoretical knowledge in a practical situation;
  • professional communication and cooperation skills;
  • the validity of the reflection on the decisions taken and their possible impact;
  • impartiality and reasoning of self-assessment;
  • quality of analysis of professional competencies.

Rating scale: credited.

Reasoned analysis of the pedagogical situation, key problems identified, reasoned and professionally justified solutions offered, pedagogical competences and reflection skills demonstrated in accordance with the results to be achieved by the study course.

Study Course Theme Plan

FULL-TIME
Part 1
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Sport theory development trends.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Sport theory development trends.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Adaptation and adaptive processes in the body of children, adolescents and young people in physical load.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Adaptation and adaptive processes in the body of children, adolescents and young people in physical load.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Physical capacity and physical fitness of children, adolescents and young people.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Physical capacity and physical fitness of children, adolescents and young people.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Movement techniques and tactics.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Movement techniques and tactics.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Diverse learning methods and techniques in sport and physical activity.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Diverse learning methods and techniques in sport and physical activity.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Planning and implementation of the study process in learning movements and developing physical capacity skills in an inclusive environment.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Planning and implementation of the study process in learning movements and developing physical capacity skills in an inclusive environment.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Study and identification of individual needs of children, adolescents and young people in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Study and identification of individual needs of children, adolescents and young people in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Study and identification of individual needs of children, adolescents and young people in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Assessing pupil’s performance and providing feedback in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Assessing pupil’s performance and providing feedback in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Exam
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
36 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam
PART-TIME
Part 1
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Sport theory development trends.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Adaptation and adaptive processes in the body of children, adolescents and young people in physical load.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Physical capacity and physical fitness of children, adolescents and young people.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Physical capacity and physical fitness of children, adolescents and young people.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Movement techniques and tactics.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Diverse learning methods and techniques in sport and physical activity.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Diverse learning methods and techniques in sport and physical activity.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Planning and implementation of the study process in learning movements and developing physical capacity skills in an inclusive environment.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Planning and implementation of the study process in learning movements and developing physical capacity skills in an inclusive environment.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Study room
2

Topics

Study and identification of individual needs of children, adolescents and young people in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Study room
2

Topics

Assessing pupil’s performance and providing feedback in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Study room
2

Topics

Assessing pupil’s performance and providing feedback in the development of physical capacity and teaching of movement.
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
24 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam

Bibliography

Required Reading

1.

Jansone, R., Fernāte, A., & Bula-Biteniece, I. (2016). Sporta pedagoģija: vakar šodien rīt. Rīga, RaKa, 195.-444.lpp.

2.

Carl, J., Salin, K., Barnett, L. M., Foweather, L., Jurak, G., et.al. (2026). Alignment of physical education curricula with physical literacy across Europe: an observational mapping study with country-level predictors. The Lancet Regional Health - Europe, 65, 1-13. Article 101641.Suitable for English stream

3.

Carl, J., Goss, H., Lundvall, S., Pavlova, I., Algurén, B., Antala, B., et.al.(2025). Compatibility of physical education curricula with physical literacy across 40 European countries. Journal of Curriculum Studies, 1-21.Suitable for English stream

4.

Jansone, R., & Fernāte, A. (2009). Kustību apguves un fizisko spēju attīstīšanās didaktika sporta stundās. Metodiskais līdzeklis. Rīga, ISEC, 1.-60. lpp.

Additional Reading

1.

Koka, A., Rutkauskaite, R., Fernāte, A., Roosiväli, I., et.al.(2025). Predicting schoolyard physical activity during recess among adolescents: an integrated motivational model across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 1-23. Advance online publication.Suitable for English stream

2.

Oliņa, Z., Namsone, D., France, I. et al (2018). Mācīšanās lietpratībai. Latvijas Universitāte. 18.-93.

3.

Fernāte, A. (2015). Dermatoglifikas metode cilvēka iedzimto fizisko spēju noteikšanā un attīstīšanā. projekta vad. un red. S. Luika ; galv. red. R. Līcis, red. U. Grāvītis, lit. red. A. Dzenis. „Vispusīgās fiziskās sagatavotības trenera rokasgrāmata – 4”, Rīga, Latvijas Treneru tālākizglītības centrs, 129-136.

4.

Fernāte, A. (2008). Vispusība – galvenais princips bērnu un jauniešu sportā. Bērnu un pusaudžu trenera rokasgrāmata. J.Žīdena red. R: Imanta, 35-53.

5.

Fernāte, A. (2002). Sporta treniņu teorijas pamati. LSPA. 1. daļa 72.-84.

6.

Krauksts, V. (2013). Treniņu teorijas pamati (bērni un pusaudži). Drukātava. 20.-35.

7.

Bula-Biteniece, I., Jansone, R., & Piech, K. (2013). Bērns un sports pirmskolā. Rīga, RaKa.75.-79.

Other Information Sources

1.

Saskaņā ar patstāvīgo darbu uzdevumiem darbs datu bāzēs: PROQUEST EBRARY - Ebook Central; THOMSON REUTERS - Web of Science; SCOPUS - Bibliographic database; SCIENCE DIRECT - World's largest electronic collection of science, technology and medicineSuitable for English stream