bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RESEARCHING SELF-ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT TEACHERS’ PEDAGOGICAL ACTIVITY IN THEORY AND PRACTICE
Authors: Latkovska Evija , Rutka Lūcija
Published: July 2015

In professional growth of teachers, self-assessment of the pedagogical activity is a precondition for their effective practice therefore student teachers are encouraged to carry out self-assessment of the pedagogical activity already at the beginning of their studies. In order to make self-assessment of student teachers’ pedagogical activity more productive, it is important to find out a theoretical concept of self-assessment of student teachers’ pedagogical activity and to understand what impacts self-assessment of their pedagogical activity in practice. In the due course of the analysis of the scientific literature definition and functions of self-assessment of student teachers’ pedagogical activity, definition, functions, criteria and indicators of the self-assessment skill of student teachers’ pedagogical activity are formulated and as a result of the empirical research preconditions for successful self-assessment of student teachers’ pedagogical activity are revealed.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE SCHOOL AS MULTIFUNCTIONAL COMMUNITY RESOURSE IN LATVIA: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Tūna Aija
Published: July 2015

In the context of rapid changes in the society schools face the problem of how to provide services in a way which promotes lifelong learning, social cohesion and sustainable development for individuals and communities while being efficient and accountable. The impact of the financial crises, declining number of students and uncertainty about rural development in general has put small rural schools in Latvia in a challenging situation. Since 2009 the initiative has been implemented to support schools to develop into multifunctional community centres by expanding their functions and reconsidering their role in local communities. The results of the study conducted on the bases of this initiative demonstrate significant potential of community school approach and also reveal challenges in understanding and implementing such approach.
AN INTERCULTURAL SENSITIVITY AS A PROFESSIONAL TRAIT OF SPECIALISTS OF HUMANITARIAN SPHERE
Authors: Pochebut Lyudmila , Logashenko Yuliya
Published: July 2015

This paper is discussing the place of intercultural sensitivity in the structure of the intercultural competence. Here a role of intercultural sensitivity between different professional traits of humanitarian sphere's specialist and their bond with each other are discussing. We suppose that developed intercultural sensitivity helps to the specialist to be more professional in his/her work because it lets him or her to answer the question «Do the person's problems associated with his/her culture or not?» Sometimes it could be very important because we use other methods and approaches if the answer is «Yes». In this paper the empirical investigation results. The sample includes students of Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University (Kaliningrad, Russia) of different humanitarian specialties.
SOME ASPECTS OF SUSTAINABILITY AND SYNERGY IN THE EMERGING TEACHER TRAINING
Authors: Ratniece Inta
Published: July 2015

The emerging English as a foreign language teachers develop their professional competence better if they participate in global informal studies by collaboration involving global synergy issues, which develop higher their professional competence. Analysis of theoretical sources and empirical research. Results of global informal studies organized by 12 higher education teacher training institutions analyzed. Global learning shared in master classes, lectures, case studies in Austrian schools, text books for learning English compared. Lessons conducted by international teams on global learning analyzed. Results disclosing the reactions of the participants included. Valid knowledge on teaching English and sustainability gained. Synergy brings valuable knowledge needed for professional competence development on teaching/learning.
Public Governance Principles in General Education School Management of Latvia
Authors: Rečs Normunds
Published: July 2015

In contemporary world the effect of globalisation and information technologies cause transformational processes of states` public management that promote the application of new managament approaches and principles in public institution management.The changes in the public managament have effected and still effects processes of management also in education. The increase of school autonomy, a stronger focus on the process of education and its results created the need to expand the application of contemporary public management principles also in the managament of education institutions. The main goal of the report is to analyze the principles of public management and their implementation in the management of comprehensive schools of Latvia in the context of public management of Latvia and the world, and education reforms.
Debating as a Tool Promoting Thinking Process
Authors: Ročāne Maija
Published: July 2015

The teaching method – debating is a way how to encourage students to participate actively in their own learning process. The teaching method-debating is offered in the curricula of the foreign language subject in lower secondary and general secondary education in Latvia besides the other teaching methods, e.g. discussion, questions, role play, conversation, narration, etc. Through applying this teaching method the teacher is no longer the only source of information. This article is focusing on the promotion of the thinking process through debating, as well as the opportunities of bringing the teaching methoddebating to the lesson. It is important to encourage students to think. Unfortunately, often the focus of the lesson is put on the tasks that rather contribute to discipline than thinking.
SPORT STUDENT FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND USE HABITS
Authors: Rudzinska Ieva , Jakovļeva Monta
Published: July 2015

The aim of the research is to analyze sport student foreign language (English) learning and use habits in longitudinal scale (past, present and future prospective). Subjects are 35 Latvian Academy of Sport Education Full and Part time students. Methods: mixed – qualitative and quantitative. Interviews with three students led to designing a questionnaire, consisting of 12 statements. Results were analyzed with SPSS 17.0. Results show that students learn and use English both in sportive and non-sportive environment, active sporting life promotes foreign language learning. Most of them self-assess their English use skills as moderate. At present they use English more than in past, in future more than in present, and in future much more than in past (r=0.5, p<0.001).
IMPROVING STUDENT GUIDANCE PROGRAMMES AT LATVIA ’ S INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Šmitiņa Agita
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study is to outline possibilities to improve and develop the student guidance system at Latvia’s higher education institutions, linking these to the main principles of management sciences. Certain problems and weaknesses related to the existing student guidance and support system at Latvian universities have been analysed. The results of a research project aimed at determining the needs of students of guidance showed that the services are very much appreciated among them. The author of this paper offers a series of suggestions and recommendations as to improve student guidance and support services at Latvia’s institutions of higher education. With an eye toward improving these systems, the author proposes the implementation of systematic analysis of the student guidance system, as well as implementation of the results at the national, institutional and individual level.
Improvement of Pedagogical Staff ’ s Training to Multilevel Activity of Education Managers
Authors: Ismadiyarov Yashin , Isyanov Ravil
Published: July 2015

In this Article are considered some features of Training and improving of the young managing specialists in High educational establishments.The managing and pedagogical activity of the teacher is directed to the achievement of High skilled specialist Training.The Feature of the management of educational institution consists many levels character of management education.There are stressed three main levels – administrative-managing, the management of the a pedagogical process, self-managing.The main aim of the first level of management is organization and foundation of a whole system, effective activity, directing to providing of High top-marketing specialists the second level is realized by the way of organization activity of a pedagogical staff.The third level is considered as selfmanaging activity of education managers.The results of investigation showed that management and self-management and organization of pedagogical process serve for productive activity of preparation managers for education
The Usage of Illustration for Material Perception Improvement in Studying Natural Disciplines
Authors: Bodnenko Dmitriy , Radchenko Sergej , Jurtin Ivan
Published: July 2015

The article is devoted to university’s scientific research "Technology of implementation competent approach for future professionals’ training in multidisciplinary university" (KUBG). The research’s aim is generalizing of the analysis of illustrative material characteristics influence on the perception of the theoretical material by the students. The objects of the studying are science teaching, using of the illustrative material in the learning process. The test module and questionnaires were used in Moodle, system of distance learning. The features of representation about illustrative material during the science teaching were generalized. The most effective methods of illustrative material’s formation for improving the teaching of natural sciences were offered.
Didactical Model that Integrates the Student’s Knowledge about Nature and its Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Dzerviniks Jānis , Poplavskis Jānis
Published: July 2015

Nowadays the main goal of science education is to development a competence of nature studies and tehnologies. The relatively low arhievements of Latvian students when compared to the average level of OECD countries, points towards the need to develop the students’ capabilities to use the knowledge and skills acquired in school in real life situations.The authors based upon the theoretical and empirical research developed and approbated a didactical model that integrates the student’s knowledge about nature. This mentioned model forsees a more effective acquisition of physics knowledge, a deeper understanding of physics curriculum, the interaction between nature and technologies, the use of physics knowledge, the development of abilities of scientific enquiries, enrichment of positive emotional attitude, development of expressions of scientific reflexion.
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT IN CROSS – CULTURAL CONTEXT
Authors: Iļjina Svetlana
Published: July 2015

The subject to be discussed in the present article is classroom management in cross-cultural context. The main reason for the choice of this particular choice was determined mostly by the necessity of varying English language teachers’ management skills and teaching techniques in a mixed linguistic classroom. The aim of the research is to explore the ways of improving classroom management skills in a cross-cultural context.
PROMOTING OF SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IN COOPERATION WITH THE PARENTS FOR CHILDREN IN THE PRESCHOOL AGE
Authors: Vanaga Asja , Rutka Lūcija
Published: July 2015

Successful learning process in pre-school requires collaboration between children, educators and parents, whose primary goal is individual understanding of each child to promote his academic performance and personal development as a whole. This paper shows a pre-scientific and theoretical background of self-directed learning in preschool, as well as developed and theoretically substantiated child initiative research method "New friend". Particular attention is given to the promotion of the child's initiative, which is crucial in the process of self-directed learning. The empirical study of children's initiatives shows analysis of collaboration with the parents. A qualitative study reveals pre-school children's initiative promotion opportunities in collaboration with parents, by using research method "New friend".
Monitoring Processes for Training and Professional Activities Teaching Staff of Higher Educational Institutions
Authors: Begimkulov Uzokboy , Shoymardonov Tuymurod , Adashboev Shavkiddin , Obidov Azamat , Akilbaeva Mukhtabar
Published: July 2015

The paper highlights the essence of monitoring as a basis of foreseeing the development of professional skills and processes of retraining and upgrading teachers’ professional skills. There are given types, objects, and methods of  the monitoring of teachers’ professional competence. There are described the possibilities of developed electronic monitoring system, as an innovative technology that enables to fulfill the descriptive, corrective and predictive functions of quality management in the system of upgrading teachers’ professional skills as well.
The Model of Teacher’s Tolerant Behaviour as the Means for the Humanization of the Pedagogical Process
Authors: Chehlovs Mihails , Chehlova Zoja , Rossolova Tatiana
Published: July 2015

Humanization is the key educational strategy in a democratic society. According to the principles of the Council of Europe, the mission of education is to help everyone to develop his/ her individual potential and become a citizen of the European Community, to understand interconnectedness with Europe and the rest of the world. In accordance with the concept of common European culture, young people have to be able to understand the contemporary world and adapt to constant changes, work actively and creatively, continue learning, explore problems, cooperate and perfect themselves (Ross,2006). Scholars agree that the humanization of education is a necessary precondition in order to educate an active personality. The object of research - the models of teacher’s behaviour in the educational process. The subject of research – the humanization of the pedagogical interaction between the teacher and learners. The aim of the research – to determine conditions concerning the humanization of pedagogical interaction between the teacher and learners and to approbate them in practice in the classes of pedagogy. Research methodology – to use approaches: humanitarian, personal activity, cultural; methods: testing, questionnaire, interviewing, mathematical statistics.
Promoting Creativity for younger school age children in arts field subject integration
Authors: Garjāne Beatrise , Kļave Ande
Published: July 2015

The article reveals the main lines of identifying the nature of creativity, highlighting the importance of creativity in education in general and arts subjects, justifying the need for integration of these items. This paper analyses the international experience in arts education and cultural education the author of the article to dis; the framework of study reveals the situation in Latvia. The study results prompted cuss arts subjects integration educational opportunities associated with industry experts and arts teacher beliefs.
Alternative Conception of Art History Course in Professional Higher Education Study Programmes
Authors: Jermolajeva Jelena
Published: July 2015

Cultural environment becoming increasingly visualized, humanitarians and professionals in socio-cultural sphere should adequately read, analyze, and effectively use various visual objects. Therefore many professional higher education study programmes include an Art History Course. The paper criticizes the traditional chronological/regional approach to the structuring of this Course. The aim of the study is to propound an alternative approach, where the historical art process is regarded as coexistence of and interaction between the six Main Art Trends, each of them developing from the ancient times to the present days. The paper discusses the advantages of this approach. The study draws upon the conceptions of art styles developed by F. Niezsche, D. Cizevsky, M. Lotman and some other philosophers and culturologists of the 19th–20th centuries.
The Facilitation of Design Students’ Spatial Perception in Study Process
Authors: Karlsone Inguna
Published: July 2015

Spatial thinking is a considerable structural component of design students’ professional competence. Objective of the current study is to evaluate and promote spatial perception of students using in the learning process principles of universal design for learning (UDL). As the result a model for development of design students spatial perception has been developed and approbated.
Creation of Learning Motivation in the Process of Cognitive Learning in Teaching Music to 12-13 Years Old Pupils
Authors: Kepule Iveta
Published: July 2015

Creation of learning motivation is one of the main problems of the school. Motivation is the basis for self-improvement; its fulfillment facilitates development of the personality and encourages a pupil to study better in order to reach the set goal. If the teacher knows the reasons for the learning motivation of the pupils, he or she can select the methods and techniques, which could stimulate the inquiry process, and in addition to development of various skills and abilities would increase also the pupils’ learning motivation. The purpose of the article - to identify the factors for creation of learning motivation for 12-13 years old pupils, based on studying and interpretation of scientific literature and teaching experience. Methods – analysis of scientific literature, questionnaires and data processing using SPSS software. The study actualizes relation of the pupils’ learning motivation with their learning activities in the cognitive learning process during the music lesson. The results obtained as the result of the study provide for an opportunity to have discussions regarding the understanding of pupils regarding the need to study.
Professional Language Studing by Students-designers as an Important Communicative Method
Authors: Momotova Lilia
Published: July 2015

The study was conducted in groups of 1-2 courses. Professional anguage is digested through professional terminology learning, different ways of working with the material are provided for this (tables, clusters, classification, discussion, the interpretation of the Glossary through a picture and other methods). Necessary information allowing to penetrate deeper into the subject and to form design concept more precisely is acquired. Professional language learning forms the world outlook, it enables students to study special disciplines consciously and allows them to reach a new stage of development of professional qualities and intelligence. Analysis of terminology assimilation shows that professional language learning is aimed at intensifying learning and cognitive activity. Development of cognitive interest gives a new content to studying, therefore professional language teaching is the most impotent technique of human communication and a means of forming thoughts.The aim of the research is substantiating the need of professional language studying by students-designers and acquainting the reader with the methods of work that contribute to the formation of the common professional culture and they are a step towards the realization of the task of combining education and the cognitive function of the training.
Dance Notation : a Historical Fact or a Necessity
Authors: Spalva Rita
Published: July 2015

For centuries choreographers and dance theorists have been looking for ample signs to create a universal system for dance notation. Dance notation was created based on the need for a repeated staging of dances or for their preservation. However, unlike with music, no universal method of notation has been established allowing to capture dance techniques and compositions from different centuries in a single system. Nowadays, when video recording enables to capture each movement, dance or dance performance, the verbalgraphic style of dance notation can be perceived as dated an ineffective. However Latvia’s experience shows that contemporary dance teachers and choreographers have not yet abandoned the traditional notation system. The author of the article draws attention to dance notation research and analyses the need for it within dance education and in practice.
THE TECHNOLOGY OF DEVELOPING HARMONIC HEARING
Authors: Zavadska Galina
Published: July 2015

In Latvia, the development of harmonic hearing takes an important place in the process of training pre-service music teachers, because a music teacher is a conductor of a school choir or a conductor of some other choir collective. The issues relating to the system of properties of harmonic musical hearing have been highlighted in a range of scientific works by different authors (Teplov, 1947; Sloboda, 1988; Petrushin, 1997). However, at present the understanding of the nature and ways of developing harmonic hearing is sometimes quite controversial. This, first of all, can be attributed to the complexity of the interrelations between harmonic hearing and general psychic processes: perception, presentation, reproduction, memory, and thinking. The interconnectedness of general human and specific, individual qualities makes this problem difficult to study. The solution of the problem is made difficult by the fact that a collective teaching at sol-fa classes in a higher education establishment often conflicts with learners’ individual peculiarities and problems of developing their harmonic hearing. Within the frame of the case study the technology of developing harmonic hearing based on the strategy of experiential learning (model by David Kolb, 1984) has been worked out. The presented technology is grounded on individual students’ learning styles and on the author’s model of developing harmonic hearing (Zavadska, 2012b).
AUTONOMOUS ENGLISH ACQUISITION IN BLENDED E-STUDIES FOR ADULTS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT : ACTIVE RESEARCH
Authors: Bojāre Ināra
Published: July 2015

Holistic approach is the main princip of sustainable development. Nevertheless investments of society in technological facilitation of learning mainly support developing of general skills. General and intellectual development of human’s personality follows from that. This research aims to evaluate methodological factors of English acquisition in classroom and virtual learning environment for facilitation of autonomous its acquisition in adults’ nonformal education. Hypothetically it is assumed that opportunities of learning environment of e-studies are insufficiently used for personal development in English acquisition programmes. The research presents an interpretation of learners’ and their facilitators evaluation of learning opportunities in classroom and virtual learning environment collected by SOT analysis. The study highlights vertical and horisontal transformation of values.
FACTORS INFLUENCING STRATEGIC USE OF WEBBASED PLATFORM AND ITS IMPACT ON EDUCATION AT UNIVERSITY
Authors: Vasiljeva Tatjana
Published: July 2015

Introducing web-based platforms in education process opens new era of technology for learning including huge challenges in education. Web-based learning could be considered as essential component fostering online learning and teaching. Various factors influencing the teachers while applying study materials in e-learning platform are investigated in the given research study. The author offers an indicative pattern of a standard content of eteaching materials, and investigates to what extent teaching materials available in MOODLE correspond to this standard pattern for ensuring comprehensive web-based e-learning and supporting effective collaboration system for the students and educator. For assessment the completeness level of e-materials available the composite coefficient is recommended as useful tool for educators who are interested in developing e-learning and e-teaching.
eLEARNING APPROACH eBIG3 : DEVELOPMENT , DELIVERY , AND EVALUATION
Authors: Žuga Bruno , Kapenieks Kristaps , Vītoliņa Ieva , Mangusa Līga , Kapenieks Atis
Published: July 2015

In this report in addition to previous results we present the evaluation results of multi-screen e-learning courses – eBig3. It is a new approach and technology to lifelong learning embodying effective integration of popular television, Internet, and mobile phones technologies. We present the results of ten eBig3 pilot courses delivered in 2013 in Latvia. The target group of eBig3 courses was society at large. It demonstrates radical increase of registration in eBig3 courses compared with the traditional registration in the Internet. The course delivery was more successful than that of blended learning courses. The new approach strongly increases the availability of e-courses, and contributes to closing the gap between the expectations for future life-long-learning and real achievements. We didn’t observe connection between learner’s age and attitude towards the usage of SMS in the eBig3 approach.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF NON-OBSERVANCE OF WORK SAFETY REGULATIONS
Authors: Brizga Dace , Pēks Ludis
Published: July 2015

Non-observance of work safety regulations contribute to the worsening of employees’ health condition, development of occupational diseases and the increase of the possibility of accidents. Accidents happen because they have definite causes – the attitude of employers and employees towards work safety. The aim of this study was to research the psychological aspects of non-observance of work safety regulations from the work safety specialists’ point of view. The methodology of research – studies of publications pertaining to the research theme, unstructured observations, analysis of the essays written by work safety specialists about the attitude towards work safety, motivation to observe its regulations and ignoring the regulations. The text analysis was carried out using the software programme Weft QDA.
Developement of the Centers of Vocational Education in Latvia
Authors: Kiris Kaspars
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to find impact factors and results of stuctural reforms of vocational education in Latvia. The objective was to find that during 4 years period reforms started as planned, but did not continued planned way. It may impact vocational education of Latvia in future. This study used analysis of 12 documents impacting reforms. One of basic results is creating Centers of Competence of vocational education. Findings are focused on creating factors and results of these centers. Author shows purposes and criterias of reforms, development on time axis, and results and impact factors of creation of the Centers of Vocational Education, gives suggestions for further reforms.
PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL CONTEXT OF SUPPORTING SENIORS IN POLAND , USING TOOLS FROM THE EDUSENIOR PROJECT
Authors: Kozerska Agnieszka , Napora Elżbieta , Piasecka Małgorzata , Górna Joanna , Gil Alina , Nowacka Urszula , Ochoa Luis S.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of the article was to capture the psycho-educational context of support for Polish seniors by institutions that have used the methods developed in the Edusenior project. The areas requiring seniors’ education and the scope of work carried out by the developing institutions, government, and NGOs initiatives to raise the quality of life for seniors have been elucidated in the following article. The products obtained from the international Edusenior project, in which the preliminary results were evaluated by experienced Polish reviewers, comply with the above requirements.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES IN THE HUMAN CAPITAL EFFECTIVE USAGE
Authors: Pavlovska Valentina
Published: July 2015

The research was done on how the effectiveness of human capital exploitation is influenced by the relevance of skills required by employer. The research problem: the mismatch of employee skills to employer’s requirements gives cause to an inefficient use of human capital, causing damage to both employers and employees. Study objective: To ascertain employees, working in the banking sector, skills, education and qualification compliance with industry requirements and determine how discrepancies affect employee motivation. The ability to make impartial self-appraisal of own activities and competences, is particularly important, because only a man who is able to impartially assess may plan the future, choose the right career directions, evaluate own characteristics, and identify cumbersome obstacles.
FACILITATING THE ADULT LEARNING PROCESSES IN SECOND CHANCE EDUCATION : WHAT DO THE LATVIAN ADULT LEARNERS AND THEIR EDUCATORS THINK ABOUT ?
Authors: Surikova Svetlana
Published: July 2015

The paper aims at presenting the findings of the research on core competences of adult educators conducted in Latvia during the study "Identification and analysis of new challenges and solutions that have influence on engagement and reintegration of adults (18- 24 years) in lifelong learning" funded by ESF project "Support to research in educational field" (sub-activity 1.2.2.3.2.), No 011/0011/1DP/1.2.2.3.2/11/IPIA/VIAA/001. The adult educators and adult learners from the field of second chance education (evening shift schools) were involved in an online survey (2011-2012) using the research tool developed in the project “Qualified to Teach” − QF2TEACH. The main research results are analysed in order to identify the core competences of educators as adult learning facilitators and to compare the adult learners and their educators’ opinion concerning these competences within the domains: interpersonal behaviour and communication with learners, access and progression of learners, monitoring and assessment of learning processes.
Mindfulness Factors and Anxiety Levels in Groups of Adults with Different Meditation Experience
Authors: Svence Guna , Majore Laila , Majors Māris
Published: July 2015

The study includes the methodological model of mindfulness, definition of mindfulness in Latvian, model of other psychological notions related to mindfulness, proven links between the mindfulness and its subscales and anxiety scales, differences in mindfulness indicators among respondent groups with different meditation experience. The study involved 198 respondents in age of 22–56 years, M=36.91; SD=8.23, with different meditation experience. The study uses the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire – FFMQ- adapted in Latvian by M. Majors (2012), as well as Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form (Spielberger, et al. 1983), adapted in Latvian by D. Škuškovnika (LU Rīga, 2004). The results show that there are statistically significant links between indicators of mindfulness and its subscales, as well as indicators of the anxiety scale (r between -0.27 and -0.63r, p less then 0.01). Results indicate statistically significant differences in the respondent groups of mindfulness and its subscales with different meditation practice. Results were between (F(2.198) is 6.51, p less then 0.05) and (F(2.198) is 19.83, p less then 0.01).
EMPOWERMENT OF OLDER PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE IN EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Authors: Zemaitaityte Irena
Published: July 2015

The article examines the empowerment of older adults to participate in educational activities in order to remain active members of the society. Empowerment is defined as the activation of the member to act on the basis of inner and outer resources. The growing number of older people in the society prompt to constantly review and adjust the resources of the society in the area of economy, education and health care to the new needs. Therefore, in order that older people would feel a fulfilling quality of life, it is necessary to promote them to be active, underpin social roles, provide them possibilities to engage in volunteering, educational, cultural activity and learn new things.
LIFELONG LEARNING AND ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP : THE CASE OF DIRECTING LIFE CHANGE PROJECT
Authors: Chandler Keith , Siguencia Luis Ochoa , Ochoa-Daderska Renata
Published: July 2015

Learning is our vehicle for change. As a learning community project, we can engage mature people to learn, initially through reflection, that they are empowered to, and can still influence, the direction of their life path. Choices including creative entrepreneurship, active citizenship through volunteering and mentoring, taking up further learning and address the emerging key societal challenge of the need for citizens to be and remain proactive. The aim of this paper is to emphasis in this process and to show how, ‘Directing Life Change’11 project empowers through direct participation, not only of other Learners, with whom relationships are fostered, but also with active participation of potential Life Change actors, locally and internationally. It also seeks to share innovation and experiences with a range of different audiences.
PECULARITIES OF STUDENTS ’ ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE STUDIES AND THE PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER IN THE ASPECT OF GENDER
Authors: Čepelionienė Jurgita , Ivaškienė Vida
Published: July 2015

The most important factor of physical education at the university level is the teacher hence it is his qualifications, educational mastery on which depends his ability to create a favorable learning atmosphere with the respect to the educational and emotional aspects. The relationship between the physical education specialist and students, the content of the practical lessons, methods and theoretical lectures influence the formation of students’ attitude towards physical activities and the development of the practical acts The purpose of the research is to set student’s attitude towards the studies and physical education teacher relying on the gender aspect. Empirical research was conducted in the spring semester of year 2009. The 491 students were involved in this study (362 female and 129 male).
CHARACTERIZATION OF WOMEN’S GENERAL HEALTH AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN FITNESS
Authors: Čuprika Aleksandra , Fernāte Andra , Čupriks Leonīds
Published: July 2015

Sedentary life causes very big physical and mental health problems, which also decrease one’s life quality. That is why the aim of the research is to evaluate women’s involved in fitness interconnection of subjective evaluation of life quality components and their connection to objective parameters of life quality. GHQ-12 was applied to evaluate general health and IPAQ short version was used to state the amount of physical activities. There are several weak and a very weak correlation between general health, amount of physical activities and the objective factors of life quality. To fully evaluate and improve the parameters of life quality subjective and objective character should be taken into account.
The Assessment of Professionalism for Ambulance Personnel – Problems and Challenges
Authors: Dambe Gundega , Atstāja Dzintra
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this paper is to clarify whether annual knowledge testing at a work place promotes Ambulance professionals for personnel development, and if it providesthe possibility to assess personnel’s competence and professionalism. The results of 1693 ambulance personnel’s annual knowledge testing in years 2011, 2012,2013 are analysed in the research. The results obtainedreflect that in all stages knowledge improves, but there are not possibility to assess personnel’s competence and professionalism for building personnel development programs in the future.
Development of Learning Needs - Grounded Pedagogical Intervention Program for Adults with Social Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Gehtmane-Hofmane Ilona , Nīmante Dita
Published: July 2015

The cognitive behavior therapy is one of the most widely used and is considered as the most effective method of treating social anxiety. However there are some researches drawing attention to the necessity to create new, effective methods of intervention for solving of problems caused by social anxiety. For the present moment there are made various researches concerning the different aspects of the disorders caused by the social anxiety within the fields of psychology and psychosomatic medicine, but there are almost no researches within the context of social anxiety in the field of pedagogy. Therefore there is lack of pedagogical solutions for the support of people having the disorders caused by social anxiety. Therefore there is a reasoned necessity to develop a learning-needs-based program of pedagogical intervention for reduction of social anxiety. The Article reflects the results of an empirical research, allowing identifying the learning needs of adults with social anxiety disorders, which will establish the target and tasks of developing program of pedagogical intervention.
INSTITUTIONAL EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH RISKY BEHAVIOUR
Authors: Hutyrová Miluše
Published: July 2015

In the Czech Republic, the model of life in schools for institutional education is structured. The main of focus of the article is to map diverse approaches of various professionals to the current process of transformation of Czech system of care of children at risk and to search for a feasible solution of the situation. The children are taken care of, in particular, from the material perspective since these schools’ level corresponds to the level of a middle-income family. The institution’s role ends upon the achievement of child’s adulthood or upon the completion of his/her education, and it is then solely up to the young individual to cope with life outside the institution on his/her own. A young individual leaving an institutional education facility should be able to manage various social skills, in particular, when it comes to activities relating to self-management and housekeeping.
LEARNING OUTCOMES APPROACH IMPLEMENTATION: FUTURE PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS’ DIDACTIC COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT
Authors: Jansone Rasma , Fernāte Andra , Immere Inta
Published: July 2015

Education process in Latvian Academy of Sport Education (LASE) is directed to provide all education level physical education (PE) teacher adequate preparation. Everyone in any country has the right to a quality education, which is determined by the contribution in student preparation, teacher qualification, learning environment organization, investment in education, and the planned outcomes. Contextual approach to quality is not determined; it depends on the creativity and continuous development. Learning outcomes assessment approach is the basis for an objective study achievement assessment. In the result of the research are obtained assessments of future PE teacher's ability to develop lessons, choose their content, conduct them using holistic approach, critically analyze their performance and make decisions for the improvement of their qualification. Education leaders will use the obtained results in long-term program changes.
INTERACTIONS BETWEEN PUPILS WITH SEVERE MULTIPLE DISABILITY AND TEACHERS
Authors: Kantor Jiří , Ludíková Libuše , Hutyrová Miluše , Svoboda Pavel
Published: July 2015

The paper presents a study (mostly of a quality design) aimed at the teacher-pupil interaction performed at the Institute of Special Education Studies, Palacky University in Olomouc. The data was collected by semi-structured interviews, observation of the educational process and a questionnaire survey. Open, axial and selective coding as well as logic analysis of the responses was used for the data analyses. A synthesis of various data as well as various theoretical backgrounds led to the development of a model for the description of the relationship between the teacher and the pupil with severe mental, physical and communicational disability. The paper includes a description of the categories of this model and their process-based classification into inputs, course and outputs.
Social Networks in Education
Authors: Larionovs Aleksandrs
Published: July 2015

Nowadays popularity of social networks (draugiem.lv, facebook etc.) is increasing, virtually every student has at least one account in one of the social networks. But the problem is that little is known about how to use social networking in Latvian education. The author of this paper will try to prevent it, to summarize available information on social networking in education.
Upbringing as a Necessity and Freedom
Authors: Līdaka Anita
Published: July 2015

Upbringing is a purposeful process of internal and external conditions of life activity affected the process by which students develop and implement personally important attitudes towards themselves, other people, nature, culture, work, society and the state, acquiring the necessary competence for independent work. On the one hand, upbringing is a public necessity, on the other hand - the phenomen of personal freedom. That is the relationship between these two trends who can be discerned as personality driving force. Hence the importance of a deep understanding the upbringing as a necessity and freedom, which connects the targeted claims against the younger generation and its efforts to understand themselves, self-realization, to meet their growing needs, involving all forces, talents and abilities.
Readiness of Kindergarten Teachers for Inclusive Education
Authors: Nesyna Svetlana , Starovoit Nataliya
Published: July 2015

The aim of the research is to study psychological and professional readiness of kindergarten teachers for inclusive education. 44 kindergarten teachers from Kaliningrad and region were included in the sample. A questionnaire was applied as a data-gathering tool. According to the results, kindergarten teachers accept the idea of inclusive education positively and expect that it is the children with special needs who would receive the biggest benefit. At the same time, realization of the idea of inclusive education causes anxiety and fears, associated with complexity of pedagogical activity, children interaction, necessity of special conditions for successful inclusion. Most kindergarten teachers don’t have professional and educational experience for interaction with children who have special needs. Moreover it has been revealed deficiency of psychological and professional readiness for inclusive education in the groups of kindergarten teachers. Successful realization of inclusion requires additional professional training and development of system of pedagogical and psychological support for kindergarten teachers.
Children with Visual Imparments in the Transition Period from Preschool to Primary School
Authors: Prudņikova Ilga , Jankovska Jekaterīna
Published: July 2015

In today`s educational system, the transition from pre-school to primary school is considered as a traditional, however, the transition between education is related to a change in the child`s life. Preschool children`s readiness for school has always been a pressing problem for both: in school practice and in theory of pedagogy. This paper analyses the key theories, dealing with child development and learning processes, interaction with others and surrounding environment impacts on child development. A new perspective, which is closely related to these previously mentioned theories, is equivalent to the ecosystem approach, with is defined as a new approach with a view on children`s with visual impairments transition „pre-school – primary school” successful overcoming is needed on planned and targeted support.
THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN PERSONS WITH BEHAVIOURAL PROBLEMS IN PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: Ruzicka Michal
Published: July 2015

The objective of the article is to make the reader acquainted with the quality of life in persons with behavioural impairment in professional institutes in the Czech Republic. The first part of the text aims at describing individual institutes, and the second part presents the research conducted in facilities of subsequent care for people with behavioural problems. The system of facilities for the monitored target group is rather extensive. Such facilities are regarded from various perspectives and points of view. The monitored institutes are divided in terms of the age of their clients, the scale of the problems, the services provided, etc. Also, the knowledge of valid legislation plays an important role. The following text intends to divide the target facilities based on specific criteria – which will improve orientation (at first sight) in the complicated and disorganised portfolio of institutes. It is beyond the capacity of this paper to enumerate all institutes dealing in the prevention, intervention, therapy and resocialization of persons with problems relating to behaviour, thinking, emotions, etc. The text adverts to the most significant institutes and introduces their activities in the form of practical examples (casuistry). The paper follows, above all, the current legislation and practice. The presented research focuses on describing the quality of life in persons under the programmes of subsequent care. The reason for selecting this type of institute is the fact that the participants of subsequent care programmes have experience with stays even in other types of monitored facilities.
Investment in the Development of Latvian Music Pedagogy by Latvians Living beyond Latvia
Authors: Sīle Maruta
Published: July 2015

History of music pedagogy is developed by great personalities. Wherever Latvia’s musicians have been brought by their life routes – music has been above any difficulties encountered. The artist’s education has to be represented in two directions – historical and systematic. Without a clear insight into one’s own national history of art, no one can grow into a real artist. Explorations in history of music pedagogy can more objectively assess the present and prognosticate perspectives in the future. The more we learn about the Latvian by descent artists’ creative activities, their working methods and results beyond Latvia, the greater is our desire to use their experiences in our own work, as the child development is always in the centre of researches. One of collaboration ways is the’’ International Latvian Young Musicians Camp’’ headed by the director – professor, Dr.paed. Ingrīda Gutberga, a Latvian living abroad, well-known as an organist, conductor, pianist, chair person of Boston Latvian Heritage foundation. The participants of the camp are young musicians from all over the world enjoying guidance of internationally renowned music pedagogues.
THE EDUCATION OF STUDENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORERS FROM THE TEACHER ` S VIEWPOINT – A CZECH / POLISH COMPARATIVE STUDY AT THE SECONDARY EDUCATION LEVEL
Authors: Urbanovská Eva , Kantor Jiří , Růžička Michal
Published: July 2015

ASD are a widely discussed and topical area in the forefront of the interest of professionals from a number of scientific fields. The following paper approaches the issue from the viewpoint of special education and focuses on the area of educating students with autism spectrum disorders at the secondary education level. The topic was addressed under a quantitative investigation undertaken at Czech and Polish schools. The paper presents a part of the results obtained from the investigation. We focus special attention to the issue of raising awareness on the part of secondary school teachers. Further factors will be outlined, such as: factors determining instruction, factors evaluated as the most demanding by teachers while working with students with ASD and action proposed to optimise vocational training of students with ASD.
REGULATION OF THE RIGHTS OF CHILDREN IN OUT-OFHOME CARE BY TRUSTEE IN LATVIAN AND INTERNATIONAL POLITICS
Authors: Vasechko Lubova
Published: July 2015

This article provides an analysis of the way in which the Latvian regulatory framework in force determines the fulfilment of the needs of the child in out-of-home care by trustee and stability. This analysis indicates that in Latvian legislation the concept of “interests of the child” has not been clearly stated, in this regard, the Latvian legislation provides information of the rights of the child and the fulfilment of his physical needs. The concept of trustee and the existence of the concept is not mentioned. In contrast, international declarations and conventions on the topic of the protection of the rights of the child are much more humanitarian; in those documents, love and understanding from adults are acknowledged as the primary components in the harmonious development of the personality of the child.