bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competences needed for the university faculty in view of pedagogy students
Authors: Baranova Sanita , Kaļķe Baiba
Published: May 2015

Diverse evaluation of the study process and the activities of all participants involved in it is a significant element in the context of introducing quality culture at the higher education institutions (HEI). It is a common practice in HEI to carry out students’ surveys in order to receive students’ evaluation on the quality of the study process as such, the study curriculum, the content and organization of particular subjects. On the basis of the performed analysis of the scientific and didactic literature, the article describes students’ survey and the possibilities of applying its results in assessing the quality of the university faculty’s professional activities. The survey of pedagogy students was performed in the empirical study which helped to find out students’ understanding about the competences needed for the university faculty in their professional activities in the study process at higher education institution and the professional development needs of the university faculty in view of pedagogy students are defined.
Qualitative Development of Construction Student’s Attitude in Ecological Teaching and Learning Process
Authors: Bērziņš Andris
Published: May 2015

The publication reflects the qualitative development of construction students' ecological attitude in learning and teaching process in a vocational school. By facilitating the teaching and learning process, developing the content of education, introducing in teaching ecologically-oriented forms of work, methods, approaches and instruments; using the environment as a pedagogical tool and highlighting the important role of teacher as an ecological person in the accentuation of teaching content as students understand it. The author emphasizes the impact of the components of ecological education in the promotion of the reflection on the most essential attitude criteria – knowledge, skills and behaviour. Applying quantitative and qualitative research, the author sums up the experimantally obtained results showing that by the introduction of the components of ecological education, it is possible to foster the development of an ecological person.
The Professional Competence of a University Teacher within the Humanistic Paradigm
Authors: Čehlovs Mihails
Published: May 2015

In view of the changes that have taken place in the methodological framework of pedagogy, it is necessary to bring to the foreground issues concerning the professional competence of a university teacher in accordance with the new ideas of the humanistic paradigm. The object of the research – the professional competence of a university teacher. The purpose of the study – to determine the basis, content and structure for the professional competence of a university teacher in new historical circumstances. Research methodology – an aggregate of methods: epistemological (personal activity), culturological, humanistic, and competence-based methods.
Nurses professional identity issues
Authors: Bēta Gunta
Published: May 2015

Researches and publications on the professional identity of nurses and on the factors shaping it are comparatively rare in Latvia. In this respect, of significance is the entirety of several factors in projections of the personality of an individual and of assessment, provided by the patients and society: values, attitude and knowledge. The scope of the article applies to three periods in the life of a nurse: period till acquirement of professional education and periods of professional education and professional activities, during which forms the value system of the prospective nurse and develops her / his professional socialisation that in general encourages formation of the professional identity of a nurse.
PROJECT AS AN INNOVATIVE SOLUTION FOR CHANGES IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Daniela Linda , Kraģe Gunta
Published: May 2015

The article analyzes project as a method of innovative solution in higher education which may result in introducing gradual changes in the institutions of higher education. There is a universal opinion that universities are conservative institutions where changes are slow or they are not at all. Nowadays the emphasis of action changes and higher education institutions (hereafter in the text HEI) look for cooperation possibilities with the employers and the possible applicants; they try to get closer to the society by participating in social and economic changes that take place in the society and participate in developing the education policy and decision making. Implementation of projects in the higher education institution which involve the whole staff promotes the increase of the staff’s competence and provide innovative solutions in the study process, develop a closer link among the project partners, state, municipality and non-governmental sector.
COMPETENCES DEVELOPMENT PROCESS RECORDING FOR MULTI-COMPETENCE E-COURSE
Authors: Gorbunovs Aleksandrs , Kapenieks Atis
Published: May 2015

Understanding of students’ current level of competencies might be tailored with a finding of the challenging learning approaches to strengthen and enhance their own competencies, and obtain the new ones. Learning paths, which are usually offered by educational organizations to students, as often as not prescribe monotonous acquiring of knowledge. Making a study course more interactive, there are appearing additional features like working in ePortfolio environment which noticeably influence competences level. This paper provides an overview of research results in competences development process recording for multi-competence e-course, assessing competences level of students, both at initial and on-going stages, and analysis of competences interrelation within particular subject domain, e.g. basic business course, as well as an impact of the study themes on different competencies.
Social Networks in Regulation Learning Process Quality
Authors: Gulbis Rūdolfs
Published: May 2015

Successful web-based learning depends on several key factors. These include the quality of the learning tools, the motivation of users, and the credibility of the learning materials as well as their significance in the eyes of users. It is possible to find numerous examples of web-based lifelong learning approaches that can be viewed on social networks and discussion forums. The research for this study included designing several blog-based discussion forums where user activities were logged and the results were compared to usercompleted questionnaires for similar activities. Several user behaviour identification models were designed based on algorithmically computed tallies of user behaviours. These models are currently being applied for further study to measure user behaviours in virtual learning environments.
The Verbal and Non-verbal Communication in Professional Training of Border Guards
Authors: Indriksons Alens
Published: May 2015

The main objective of organizations is to achieve goals. Achieving goals is not possible without successful communication in work environment. Verbal and non-verbalcommunication plays an important role in border guards professional training. The present paper explores the nature of verbal and non - verbal communication in organization, problems in communication process between persons who are involved in it. The paper covers border guard’s skills related to communication which are defined in border guard’s professional standards. It is difficult to implement some of them in Border Guard because of special rules and services conditions. The paper deals with the situations of verbal and nonverbal communication in professional training process in State Border Guard College.
INTERNET, TELEVISION AND MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES FOR INNOVATIVE ELEARNING
Authors: Kapenieks Atis , Zuga Bruno
Published: May 2015

We are developing an innovative cross-media learning delivery system (eBig3, ETM) that goes beyond traditional web-based learning approaches. The approach combines wide availability of television and mobile technologies with the capacity and flexibility of Internet based e-learning. This approach allows the learner to use either a single learning delivery system (depending on availability and preferences) or a complementary combination of two or three delivery systems, thus supporting the anywhere, anytime — by any preference—learning paradigm. The development of the eBig3/ETM learning solutions includes integration of technical aspects of cross-media learning content delivery. Moreover, the approach incorporates pedagogical and usability principles based on an understanding of the target users learning needs and their contexts.
DISTANCE EDUCATION IN HISTORICAL ASPECT
Authors: Katane Irena , Katans Edgars
Published: May 2015

In this article the authors give theoretical substantiation to the ideas of distance education, as well as offer an insight into the development of distance education, where the experience of many countries is summarized. The aim of the article is to publish the results of the theoretical research on the history of distance Education. As a result of research, the authors drew several conclusions: 1) since the 18th century, when the first attempt of distance education had been registered, till nowadays the humankind has amassed rich experience in this sphere;2) the correspondence education is the initial form of distance learning; 3) the development of distance education in the 20th century was facilitated by the development of information and communication technologies and their introduction into education; 4) in connection with the development of distance education, a new direction — media pedagogy — began its development in pedagogy.
Aspects of the professional development of the artist – educator
Authors: Klāsone Inta
Published: May 2015

The article reveals the involvement of the artist – pedagogue into the process of education and some important interconnected aspects of professional qualification development. Alongside with that, the tendencies of the epoch and activity orientation of the artist – pedagogue in accordance with Sustainable Development Strategy of Latvia until 2030 have been characterized. Involvement of a professional artist in the pedagogical process demands to acquire pedagogical science: significant aspects of teaching and upbringing. The article deals with components and functions of the concept of education, revealing its characteristic features in nowadays society and giving insight into the future system of education. The dynamics of the artist – pedagogue forms of qualification development. As a result, the conclusions have been worked out. The aim of the research is to reflect the aspects of the artist – pedagogue professional development, based on docoments analysis, on the findings of pedagogues, art historians and survey of artists – pedagogues.
Pedagogical Principles of Foreign Language Studies
Authors: Liepa Diāna , Špona Ausma
Published: May 2015

Adult learners’ study process is affected by former life’s experiences: memories, various events, relations and former study habits etc. Adult learning that is based on adults‘ own initiative and responsibility have been defined in several ways: self-directed learning, self-planned studying, self-studying, independent studies, autonomous studying, autodidactics as well as open learning. Aim of the study: to propose pedagogical principles of foreign language studies. Materials and methods: analysis of scientific and methodological literature, modelling, observation, Methods of data processing and analysis: quantitative (data analysis by using the data processing software SPSS 17.0. In the Research results approve high necessity to optimise the study process taking into consideration the principles that were researched in adults’ learning and teaching.
Evaluation of Students’ Research Activities in the Design Study Programmes at Rezekne Higher Education Institution
Authors: Mežinska Silvija
Published: May 2015

Nowadays education and research is promoting development of design industry. In order to find unique Latvian design identity the quality of design is increasing. New possibilities and requirements for design education and research are raised by social and ecological issues. In order to promote sustainable design education research strategy is needed, therefore it is essential to pay attention to research strategy in education process. The aim of the article is educational research as significant part of research competence theoretical and empirical evaluation and its activation in design courses' education process in Rezekne Higher Education Institution. The analysis of the learning research process was carried out in accordance with the principles of action research, theoretical researches in the context of the issue were carried out and the results were obtained: opinions of 80 full time students in the age group 19-25 years, about the role of learning research process of designers' education. The research has practical meaning, because it recommends suggestions for perfection of study process in connection to investigation and analysis of educational research promoting/delaying activities, and necessity to promote students' research competence for professional project work in the future.
Theoretical aspects of human capital formation in the interaction between the economic and education sectors
Authors: Mietule Iveta
Published: May 2015

In the 21st century, together with the development of society and economics, including technology, the importance of human capital as a production resource is not decreasing, on the contrary – it is growing. Today’s situation in the EU countries (demographic and ethnic problems) makes us consider the leading role of population as human capital in the development of economics as well as evaluate human capital formation conditions. The aim of the research is to explore theoretical aspects of human capital concerning the mutual interaction of the fields of economics and education. In the economic theory, there have been hot debates regarding human capital, its formation necessity, costs and benefits from the state and individual’s point of view. From the author’s point of view, the role of employer being a moving force in forming human capital is underestimated. It is crucial to involve employers in the formation of the human capital, making a dialogue in relation to the implementation of professional and higher education programmes.
Student- centred learning in the Liepaja University
Authors: Neimane Ilma , Rupeika Rita
Published: May 2015

The idea about student focused higher education has been actualizped during the meeting of European ministers of Education and Science at Levene Kommunike in 2009, where higher education priorities in Europe were determined. Changing the role of student psychologically and economically as well to the student focused higher education represents obtaining the study course subbordinating it to achieved results not vice versa.. During the new study model the student becomes the partner of the teacher in case if he/she understands his/her rights, he/she is listened to and there is a possibility to achieve the identified goals and challenges. University of Liepaja has started to develop the following approach in study process.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE KNOWLEDGE AT LATVIA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE
Authors: Ozola Inese , Zeidmane Anda
Published: May 2015

Information culture of a person is the combination of knowledge, skills and habits of work with information and information technologies. Information culture characterizes the level of a person’s development in the information society. On the other hand, the English language, as “the language of science and technology” serves as a mediator in the information search not only for personal purposes, but also for the study and research purposes online. The aim of the present paper is to examine the impact of e-environment on improving students’ English language knowledge at the tertiary level. The paper describes the results of the research carried out among the undergraduate students to determine their opinion regarding studying English at the university and their habits in using e-environment in English. The results of the study could assist in updating the content of ESP courses, including CLIL elements and innovative activities based on Web 2.0 tools in teaching/learning English.
Organization of Pedagogical Practice for Facilitation of Students’ Creative Professional Activity
Authors: Strode Aina
Published: May 2015

Development of teacher’s creative individuality is a dynamic process of personality transformation and self-development. Aim of the article is to determine the possibilities to facilitate students’ self-dependent professional activities as a condition of creativity. Within the framework of the article, the results of the experts’ judgment method are analyzed using content analysis. Experts’ assessment confirms the correspondence of the model to the consummation of student's individual development and learning objectives. Students' creative professional activity is contributed by facilitation of student-oriented and social-oriented studies activity; provision of the action approach; ensuring the unity of theory and practice between the study courses and pedagogical practice as well as in the content of each one.
PROMOTION OF STUDENT SELF-DIRECTION IN COOPERATIVE LEARNING IN UNIVERSITY
Authors: Strods Gunārs
Published: May 2015

This article presents results of implementation of principles of direction and liberalization in cooperative learning in teacher training. The purpose of the study was to work out and implement an educational model for promotion of student self-directed learning skills in teacher training in university, and explore the relationships between the cooperative learning process and self-directed learning development. Empirical data were collected through self-directed learning-readiness tests (SDLRS/LPA), student self-assessment questionnaires, and interviews at the beginning and the end of the semester. The data of experiment group were compared with control group data, and 170 students were involved in the study. Results indicate that self directed learning readiness improves through cooperative learning processes for students of all levels, while in traditional process below average and average level students’ readiness improves, and above average level students’ readiness expressions are limited and readiness for self-direction decreases.
Possibilities of Computer-supported Collaborative Learning in Blended-learning
Authors: Ulmane-Ozoliņa Lāsma
Published: May 2015

Higher education institutions in Latvia offer blended learning where traditional face to face lectures are combined with e-learning options. Research on blended learning in Latvia is very little. Author offers her view on blended learning analysis in Latvia and possibility to introduce computer-supported collaborative learning as tool to involve students in more active learning and learners’ community building. As theoretical background author uses sociocultural theory and participatory metaphor. Article describes several very important issues to put attention on when starting to introduce CSCL and blended learning in Latvia’s higher education institutions.
Students’ Integrative Collaboration in the Early Youth in the Educational Establishments of the Construction Professional Direction
Authors: Van Gejeka Nataļja , Ignatjeva Svetlana
Published: May 2015

This article presents the third part of a learning environment study in juvenile groups in Latvian a secondary technical school and deals with methodological aspects of learning environment organization in the context of students’ integrative collaboration. This study consists of three parts. The first part of the study reveals the presence of some organizational problems in teaching technical subjects in secondary technical schools related to the creativity of students. The second part of the study defines prevailing types of learning environments in technical schools and learners’ reactive anxiety levels regarding practical lessons. The third part clearly states how to create a learning environment with the goal of ensuring the conditions for student creative abilities development, widely using an integrative collaborative approach in the practical lessons of the technical discipline called Building Constructions at Riga Construction College’s school. Results show this approach failed to show a significant increase in student creativity.
INFLUENCE OF INTERNATIONALIZATION PROCESSES IN THE HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTERCULTURAL COMPETENCE
Authors: Virgailaitė-Mečkauskaitė Eglė , Lubkina Velta
Published: May 2015

Since integration and globalization processes are accelerating in the world, the demand to internationalize education and studies increases as well as parameters of the activities of higher education institutions change. International competitive ability of European higher education area, international mobility and high level of university graduates’ employment as well as successful integration into international labour market are the main aims of Bologna process. Bologna declaration, various documents of conventions (European convention of higher education institutions, Salamanca) and communiqué documents (of Prague; Berlin; Bergen) related to the declaration devoted to the creation of common European Higher Education Area raise the necessity of higher education policy emphasizing internationalization, the conception of lifelong learning. The documents mentioned above emphasize the development of European dimensions and content internationalization in study programmes, training of a flexible, mobile, constantly improving and public active specialist who will integrate into the competitive labour market, mobility of the academic community and international cooperation. The development of intercultural competence becomes a more topical subject of the research taking globalization processes into consideration. That is why it is important to understand the influence of internationalization processes in the institution on the development of Master’s degree (MA) students’ intercultural competence through their experience gained in the study process. The aim of the research presented in this article is to discuss the influence of internationalization processes in the institution on the development of MA students’ intercultural competence. A scientific problem question raised in the research is how MA students telling their life story reveal the experience gained in the process of higher education internationalization which influenced the development of their intercultural competence.
TOWARDS USABILITY INTEGRATION INTO E-LEARNING DESIGN
Authors: Jirgensons Merija
Published: May 2015

While e-learning use has sharply increased, the drop-out rate is high. This paper addresses some of the aspects that cause users to reject e-learning and not finish. It focuses on the concept of “usability”, especially pedagogical usability that is currently central to usability design. While the term is nebulous, it is identified by attributes such as learnability, efficiency and (subjective) satisfaction. Attributes can be measured and designers add new ones as the need arises. Satisfaction has become the focus of pedagogical usability experts who claim the term includes motivational and emotive factors and may be measured by psychometric testing. Currently, efforts are underway to integrate pedagogical usability into e-learning design and create attractive, flexible features that are easy to handle and available on demand. Efforts are also underway to design mobile learning that incorporates usability principles. Usability improvements have been incremental because the e-learning process is not clear to designers, but it is expected that awareness and innovations will correct this problem in the future.
CONTEMPORARY THEORIES OF ADULT LEARNING
Authors: Babajeva Ludmila
Published: May 2015

Due to the adult learning theory transition from cognitive to comprehensive aspects, this article analyses contemporary theoretical notions about adult’s learning. In order to characterise the modern view on adult, the most recent insights into the education of whole adult person (P. Jarvis), three dimensions of learning (K.Illeris) and the critical theory contribution (S.D. Brookfield) will be discussed. All of mentioned, globally-renowned theorists are of the same opinion and contribute to the general adult learning theory – P. Jarvis pictures the learning process from a viewpoint of a human as holistic organism, K.Illeris develops his theory in relation to the pedagogical conditions of learning, whereas Brookfield discusses an adult in the context of social, political and democratic concept.
THEORETICAL CONCEPT OF LEARNING PROCESS IN FOLK HIGH SCHOOL
Authors: Babajeva Ludmila
Published: May 2015

Folk high schools during last 160 years have been known for being unique nonformal education institutions with their own philosophical conception established by Danish philosopher N.F.S. Grundtvig (1783-1872). Founded as national consciousness and Danish culture supportive institutions, folk high schools in short time became centres of democracy. The main ideas of these conception – „living word”, „enlightenment”, „enliving”, „school for life”, „personal development” – have made these institutions as providers of personal enlightenment, development and self-realization, where students enlived their transformations through dimensions of body, feelings and mind.
PECULIARITIES OF COMMUNICATION IN THE EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY OF THE MUSEUM
Authors: Burceva Rita
Published: May 2015

One of the basic functions of a museum as a cultural institution is education of the society, satisfaction of persons’ aesthetical and cognitive needs. The aim of the article is to find out what aspects of the communication process are related to maintaining the interest of the museum visitors and provision of the availability of information in its educational activity. The research has emphasized the standpoints of museum communication in relation to cooperation partners and users of museum services. The elements of communication described in the research are considered in the context of museum environment. The second part of the article is devoted to the analysis of the results of the empirical research showing the most appropriate ways of getting information for visitors and their satisfaction with the received educational and recreational services in the museum.
ANALYSIS OF SELECTED AREAS OF EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY OF SENIOR CITIZENS
Authors: Gil Alina , Nowacka Urszula
Published: May 2015

The aging of the society caused increased interest in problems of the elderly. This article presents the place of seniors in the educational space, defines the selected forms of their educational activity. Education counteracts social exclusion and sense of loneliness, provides access to the amenities of the modern world, allows the seniors to satisfy their need for self-accomplishment. Seniors thus face challenges they have never confronted before, while the age of transformation forces them to engage in continuous education, which becomes not only a duty, but also an obligation. Developing the expected forms of education of the elderly is one of the most vital tasks in the years to come.
THE USE OF EU LLL PROJECTS TO ENHANCE LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION IN NON-FORMAL EDUCATION IN LATVIA
Authors: Karklina Silvija
Published: May 2015

The present papers deals with the use of support mechanism for language instruction in the context of lifelong learning, which is of utmost importance for individual growth and for society as a whole. Although adults prefer the traditional learning /teaching environment, new worldwide processes in language instruction have brought terms such as plurilingualism, intercultural competence, language skill development, and communicative competence into everyday life. Through the creation of open space for intercultural dialogue, the communicative skills of adult learners are promoted, and a sustainable environment for continuous language learning is created. The author has analyzed the development and integration of authentic intercultural space with the practical teaching of adults, as well as their introduction and use in the learning/teaching environment in order to enhance the language acquisition process.
Opportunities for Training the Unemployed in Latvia
Authors: Laškova Jeļena
Published: May 2015

The article provides a theoretical overview and analysis of the research on the opportunities of the unemployed to receive education and its impact on their personality development. There are discussed the opportunities of the unemployed to use the education free of charge, determine changes in possible situations and working out an effective life strategy in the future.
ACQUISITION OF JEWISH CULTURAL HERITAGE OF LATGALE IN REGIONAL EDUCATIONAL ESTABLISHMENTS: DISCOURSE OF CULTURAL MEMORY
Authors: Senkāne Olga , Laganovska Karīne
Published: May 2015

In the context of culture and history discourse and sociological analysis the interdisciplinary research reveals the significance of Jewish cultural heritage in the multinational Latgale region. Therefore, there are described topical tools in the research and preservation of Jewish cultural values and evaluated the necessity for acquisition of this culture at regional educational establishments. Prior to holocaust the ethnical group of Jews was one of the largest minorities in Latgale and had significant impact on the socio-economic and cultural development of the region. As a result of the research, it was found out that pupils and students possess knowledge about holocaust, but they have no clue about the life of this minority in Latgale before World War II and nowadays. In order to solve the problem the authors of the article offer to integrate the respective cultural and historical material into the interdisciplinary link because the tool forming memory culture are the contemporary realia – museum exhibits, photos, exhibitions, cultural and historical monuments, former Jewish squares and streets, architectonics of preserved houses, etc. RHEI REGI has created a virtual museum “Jews in Latgale” as an interactive tool offering teachers, museum staff and other interested persons video films, witnessing interviews and other materials.
The readiness of pedagogical personnel to realize the inclusive education in general educational institution
Authors: Kondrova Aija , Orska Rita
Published: May 2015

The dilemma between general pedagogical offer and individual needs of every student has been topical in all ages and now, too. An inclusive education now has been considered a new hope and a possible solution for the pedagogical dilemma – how to provide educational and development necessities of every child at comprehensive school. Teacher is a crucially essential person in the practice of inclusive education. The teachers mostly have to be professionally competent in order to reveal varied necessities, individual academic achievements, the social and culture environment, where these students live, of every student; and it provides an opportunity to find out how to facilitate academic achievements of every student most efficiently. The research reveals the work conditions of Latgale region teachers through the implementation of inclusive education at educational institutions of different level.
Musical experience from psychological and therapeutic perspective
Authors: Paipare Mirdza
Published: May 2015

The author of the paper is a musician, educator and certified music/art therapist. This enables her to view this particular issue both from musicians, teachers and music/art therapist’s view. Within a three-year period research was conducted and the research data on the role of musical emotions in human life were summarised. The research results allow to draw meaningful conclusions on the role of musical emotional experience not only in a person’s life, but also to identify the musical emotions impact on vital areas of human life, concerning the senses, emotions, perception, behaviour, culture, identity. Findings of the study show that scientific application of music provides not only aesthetic, but also educational and even therapeutic effect. Interpretation of the obtained results shows their applicability in pedagogy, psychology, music science, and health care.
TEACHERS’ AND PARENTS’ COOPERATION ROLE WITHIN PROVISION OF PEDAGOGICAL PROCESS AT SPECIAL EDUCATION
Authors: Prudnikova Ilga , Cernova Emilija
Published: May 2015

In the article, the cooperation topicality is justified as well as teachers’ and parents’ of pupils with moderate and severe intellectual disabilities cooperation role within pedagogic process. The authors of the article define the approach in the base of which there is teachers’ and pupils parents’ cooperation in development of individual education programs. Thanks to which the abilities of the pupils of for pupils with moderate and severe intellectual disabilities are discovered and used as well as the need of these pupils to learn to act themselves is promoted . In the result of the empiric research, it is established that, in the evaluation of all the respondents, the indices over the research have changed with positive dynamics. This certifies that the society influences positively the pupils activities who are involved into the research.
General education institution readiness of students with special needs into the mainstream realizing inclusive education policy
Authors: Rozenfelde Mārīte , Orska Rita
Published: May 2015

The article deals with the historical process of integration/inclusion of children with special needs into mainstream educational establishments in Latvia since 1998 when the pedagogical staff in Latvia was introduced the term “inclusive education” broader for the first time and there were offered practical recommendations for school and class work; afterwards some educational establishments started implementing inclusive education; the current situation regarding inclusion/integration of children with special needs in mainstream educational establishments is evaluated in the questionnaire provided to the heads of educational establishments. There are provided the data of the provided questionnaires regarding the readiness of mainstream schools in Latgale and Vidzeme regions and real situation in the integration of children with special needs.
The Cooperation in Reduction of the Social Exclusion of Youth
Authors: Samuseviča Alīda
Published: May 2015

This paper focuses on problems of the social exclusion of young people and its resolution questions. The problems in society caused by socio-economic factors significantly influence the life of youth. The objective of this paper: by considering the analysis of theoretical findings, to evaluate the cooperational experience in pedagogical practice, how to solve problems of youth social exclusion in Liepaja. The research implements sociological and educationally psychological literature analysis, in order to create comprehension of the causes of social exclusion of young people, contraversies of life quality and personal self-improvement opportunities. The author realizes analysis of five expert interview results, in order to explore the youth concerns and opportunities of reduction of youth social exclusion, as well as mechanisms and instruments of existing cooperatioon in Liepaja municipality.
Correlations between Reading Disabilities and Learning Disabilities
Authors: Tūbele Sarmīte
Published: May 2015

The article is devoted to reveal correlations between reading disabilities and learning disabilities. These problems need to be explained and teachers need to have reasonable solutions. Number of school-children with learning disabilities is increasing and teacher is not able to find the best and most precise ways of diagnostics and treatment/intervention. Causes of learning disabilities are different: brain damage or distorted functioning of it; auditory or visual perception and operating problems; language acquisition or processing problems etc. Symptoms are mostly noticed in the main areas – reading, writing and mathematics. Reading disabilities are one of the most obvious and serious problems which are to be noticed and taken into account in teacher’s actions. It is necessary to diminish dropouts and to promote success of school-children. Main ideas of dyslexia are mentioned the same as findings in learning disabilities. Early warning signs of learning disabilities are mentioned and some suggestions for intervention are stated in this article.
ADAPTATION PERIOD OF PUPILS: SOCIO-PEDAGOGICAL ASPECT
Authors: Ukstina Rita
Published: May 2015

Analyzing the causes of academic failure of the first class pupils, the child's inability to get involved in the mainstream class is often mentioned as one of them which comes along with low self-esteem and mistrust in his/her intellectual abilities. Therefore in recent years, one of the research fields of social pedagogues is child's adaptation in the first class. This study analyzes the knowledge of various authors on factors that determine the psychological and social adaptation of the child in socio-pedagogical perspective. Theoretical aspects of adaptation are explored in order to determine the causes which hinder successful adaptation, and socio-pedagogical theories are analyzed elaborating support models for the whole class, teachers, parents and individual children.
The Project of Social Skills Development in the Career Education for Students with Mental Health Problems
Authors: Urtāne Olga
Published: May 2015

Latvian education system has seen many changes that have been influenced on the structure, content and teaching methods which provide skills to use the knowledge acquired to cope with changes. Latvia has become a knowledge-based society, so the school offered the working methods that ensure students 'social skills and their level of resistance and promotes students' career education. The abstract summarizes the the most effective theoretical methods of working with students with mental health problems - the project work methods and the reachment of social skills in the career education. The research was done at Adamova Special Boarding School for students with mental health problems. At the projects students have learned to organize themselves independently, to take responsibility, to organize their time, to be able to follow the rules, learned to express their thoughts orally and in writing forms, the ability to evaluate themselves and to cooperate with others. At school the questionnaire was been done, where the teachers and students were asked in order to define the situation of social skill competence in the career education.
Evaluation Criteria and Indicators of Communicative Competence of Adolescents with Language Disorder
Authors: Ušča Svetlana
Published: May 2015

Communicative competence is called as one of the transversal composed competencies in European reference framework. The article focuses on adolescents with language disorder, the development of communicative competence and the evaluation of the problem. The development of communicative competence is burdened because of the underdeveloped language. This constitutes a menace to successful participation in further professional, cultural, political and social life. Communicative competence evaluation criteria and the indicators are posed. Certain correlations were found out in the processing of data with SPSS and AQUAD 6 programs.
Description of the Interim Peculiarities of Mental Developmental and Learning Disturbances
Authors: Vīgante Rasma
Published: May 2015

More and more pupils with special needs, including those with learning disturbances and simple mental developmental disturbances, are attending general comprehensive educational institution. It is often difficult in practice to define clearly and differentiate these two kinds of disturbances, especially in borderline cases or in the interim stage because then the features and manifestations of learning disturbances and simple mental developmental disturbances partly overlap and change. The novelty of the article is the analysis of the interim peculiarities and manifestations of these two disturbances which will allow teachers to understand better the main learning difficulties of such pupils and to choose the corresponding kinds of pedagogical support and methods as well as the correction and compensation possibilities.
Local Vibration Influence of Anaerobic Capacity in Rowers
Authors: Ciekurs Kalvis , Krauksts Viesturs
Published: May 2015

Whole body vibration is a worldwide innovation as a part of training method that helps athletes to regain the power and get ready for next training faster. However less attention is paid to local vibration where an isolated muscle or muscle group is stimulated by the use of a vibration device. For the reason to determine the effect of local vibration on anaerobic capacity of rowers, two research groups were assembled from the students of Murjāņi Sport Gymnasium (MSG) during the period of time from November 13, 2010 to March 20, 2011 - the experimental group (EG) and control group (CG). We manage tests with stationary Concept-II ergometer, EMG and goniometry before and after the sessions of local vibrations. After the local vibration sessions for experimental group, the anaerobic test results prove considerable increase on the stationary rowing ergometer Concept - II. As for the control group, there were no considerable increase observed. EMG proves considerable Triceps Brachii muscle activity improvement for the experimental group, yet the activity improvement was not observed for the control group.
Innovations in Latvian Sport Strategic Planning
Authors: Grāvītis Uldis , Luika Biruta
Published: May 2015

Taking into account the importance of sport in the formation of physically and mentally healthy nation, and in the strengthening of national identity, the government of Latvia in 2004 has ratified Basic Statement for Sport Policy, including main directions of sport policy, its aims and sub goals, priorities, results to be reached and the directions of activity. To implement this Basic Statement, was worked out National Program for Sport development from 2006 to 2012.Soon this planning period will be completed and it is necessary to find out what to improve in next document of sport strategic planning.
THE MOST EFFECTIVE TECHNIQUES USED BY SHOTOKAN KARATE JUNIOR FEMALE ATHLETES DURING COMPETITION
Authors: Ivaškienė Vida
Published: May 2015

The aim of the research is to analyze the most effective techniques used by shotokan karate junior female athletes during competition. Summing up the analysis of technique actions performed by the members of the team of Lithuanian Shotokan karate junior female athletes (n=10) it can be noticed that: female athletes most frequently performed arm technique actions; Giakucuki was observed during attacks and counterattacks while mawasigeri was observed in leg technique.
STUDENTS' BEHAVIOUR AND ATTITUDES TO SCHOOL RULES AS OUTCOME OF INVOLVEMENT IN STRUCTURED LEISURE ACTIVITIES
Authors: Jankauskiene Rasa , Sukys Saulius
Published: May 2015

The aim of the study was to ascertain the associations between students’ participation in extracurricular activities, duration and type of these activities and their antisocial behaviour, attitude towards the rules regulating their behaviour at school and students’ rights. The sample consisted of 1360 (707 males and 653 females) adolescents between ages of 12 and 17 years. The survey-style assessment questionnaire was used in this study. The research revealed that participation in extracurricular activities was associated with more seldom alcohol use, smoking, deviant behaviour at school, and favourable evaluation of school rules. Duration of extracurricular activities a week was not associated with students’ antisocial behaviour. Evaluating substance use and deviant behaviour at school participating in sport students did not differ from those ones who did not participate in any extracurricular activities. Substance use and deviant behaviour at school is less characteristic to those students who attend arts and various activities.
EVALUATION OF A PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROMOTION PROGRAM FOR SENIORS
Authors: Kaupuzs Aivars
Published: May 2015

The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of the developed programme of physical activities for 60-75 years old seniors. The study sample includes 24 seniors in experimental and 25 persons in control group. The examinations of health related variables, questionnaire about physical activity and factors influencing it, and testing of physical fitness were done. After a one-year period the results of International Physical Activity Questionnaire of the experimental group remained significantly higher than results of the control group (5103.4±1447.05 vs 3796.6±1052.12 MET-min/week; p<0.05). The results of the Exercise Stages of Change and outcome expectations questionnaires let conclude that during classes the participants’ confidence about possible benefits increased and only 15.9% of participants remain in contemplation stage and 13.8% stay in preparation stage. In comparison with the control group the results of lower and upper body strength test significantly improved (p<0.05) as well as the participants of the programme could cover a longer distance in the 6 minute walking test. The changes of the results of health related variables were not statistically significiant (p>0.05).
The Effect of Physical Activities on the Fitness Levels in Children with Developmental Problems/Impaired Development
Authors: Ķīsis Igors , Sitņika Nataļja
Published: May 2015

Physical activities have for long been seen as one of the most effective tool of aiding correct growth and development of children. Worldwide children have become a lot less physically active and this is even more apparent in less developed regions. The time and resources devoted to physical education and activities continue to decrease as physical activities and sports games are increasingly being substituted with computer and console games, as well as TV programs. By analyzing the results of EUROFIT method in 2010 it has been found that in all institutions of general secondary education, 47.5% of boys and 55.5% of girls had shown fitness levels below the average level, but 12.8% of boys and 15.1% of girls were seen to have fitness levels being at a low level. As seen in many scientific treatises, every member of society needs to be capable of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in order to ensure optimum health and fitness levels. Regular physical activities improve all components of overall fitness, whereas a precondition to good health is to regularly perform daily activities along with extra physical activities such as sports, and thus having a good overall level of fitness.
Dynamics of Physical Preparedness of LASE Students in Revelation to the Number of Practical Methodological Classes
Authors: Lesčinskis Māris , Čupriks Leonīds
Published: May 2015

One of the tasks in study course “Athletic preparation” is to develop strength abilities, and, after study course, to determine development level of strength abilities. Planning of study course “Athletic preparation” in the period from 2005/2006 to 2008/2009 year of study, the practical methodological classes was different. In the period from 2005/2006 to 2006/2007 year of study the practical methodological classes was planned three times per week. In the period from 2007/2008 to 2008/2009 year of study the practical methodological classes was planned one time per week. On the basis of the study schedule changes there was the assumption that, planning study course “Athletic preparation” all year once a week, it is not possible to achieve as good physical development as during three classes per week planning during one semester. Evaluation of physical preparedness dynamic of LASE first course students in the study course “Athletic preparation” with a variety of practical methodological classes will allow us to evaluate the effectiveness of study courses releated to physical preparedness. Research data obtained will make it possible in the future to better plan the different course volume and incidence of classes, associated with increasement of physical preparedness.