☐1.1.Mathematics

☐1.2.Computer and information sciences

☐ 1.3.Physical sciences

☐ 1.4.Chemical sciences

☐ 1.5.Earth and related environmental sciences

☐ 1.6.Biological sciences

☐ 1.7.Other natural sciences

☐ 2.1 Civil engineering

☐ 2.2 Electrical engineering, electronic

engineering, information engineering

☐ 2.3 Mechanical engineering

☐ 2.4 Chemical engineering

☐ 2.5 Materials engineering

☐ 2.6 Medical engineering

☐ 2.7 Environmental engineering

☐ 2.8 Environmental biotechnology

☐ 2.9 Industrial Biotechnology

☐ 2.10 Nano-technology

☐ 2.11 Other engineering and technologies

☐ 3.1 Basic medicine

☐ 3.2 Clinical medicine

☐ 3.3 Health sciences

☐ 3.4 Health biotechnology

☐ 3.5 Other medical sciences

☐ 4.1 Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries

☐ 4.2 Animal and dairy science

☐ 4.3 Veterinary science

☐ 4.4 Agricultural biotechnology

☐ 4.5 Other agricultural sciences

☐ 5.1 Psychology

☐ 5.2 Economics and business

☒ 5.3 Educational sciences

☐ 5.3 Sociology

☐ 5.5 Law

☐ 5.6 Political Science

☐ 5.7 Social and economic geography

☐ 5.8 Media and communications

☒ 5.7 Other social sciences

☐ 6.1 History and archaeology

☐ 6.2 Languages and literature

☐ 6.3 Philosophy, ethics and religion

☐ 6.4 Art (arts, history of arts, performing arts,

music)

☐ 6.5 Other humanities

☐1.1.Mathematics

☐1.2.Computer and information sciences

☐ 1.3.Physical sciences

☐ 1.4.Chemical sciences

☐ 1.5.Earth and related environmental sciences

☐ 1.6.Biological sciences

☐ 1.7.Other natural sciences

☐ 2.1 Civil engineering

☐ 2.2 Electrical engineering, electronic

engineering, information engineering

☐ 2.3 Mechanical engineering

☐ 2.4 Chemical engineering

☐ 2.5 Materials engineering

☐ 2.6 Medical engineering

☐ 2.7 Environmental engineering

☐ 2.8 Environmental biotechnology

☐ 2.9 Industrial Biotechnology

☐ 2.10 Nano-technology

☐ 2.11 Other engineering and technologies

☐ 3.1 Basic medicine

☐ 3.2 Clinical medicine

☒ 3.3 Health sciences

☐ 3.4 Health biotechnology

☐ 3.5 Other medical sciences

☐ 4.1 Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries

☐ 4.2 Animal and dairy science

☐ 4.3 Veterinary science

☐ 4.4 Agricultural biotechnology

☐ 4.5 Other agricultural sciences

☐ 5.1 Psychology

☐ 5.2 Economics and business

☐ 5.3 Educational sciences

☐ 5.3 Sociology

☐ 5.5 Law

☐ 5.6 Political Science

☐ 5.7 Social and economic geography

☐ 5.8 Media and communications

☒ 5.7 Other social sciences

☐ 6.1 History and archaeology

☐ 6.2 Languages and literature

☐ 6.3 Philosophy, ethics and religion

☐ 6.4 Art (arts, history of arts, performing arts,

music)

☐ 6.5 Other humanities

         LASE, the only sport specific higher education institution in Latvia, is a knowledge base and an innovation resource centre in sport science and health care in sport, which forms a global and in Latvia rooted human capital of education, sport and health care specialists in sport, strengthening and creating innovations in the field of sport as a labour-intensive sector of economic growth. Its main goal is to provide students with an opportunity to obtain higher academic and higher professional education and training, to develop sport science and research in health care in sport, to cultivate culture in order to preserve the intellectual and physical potential necessary for the Republic of Latvia (LV), ensuring and providing a harmonious people development. One of the strategic directions of LASE development is scientific activity and innovations and optimization of the Academy’s structure and infrastructure (including for science and research).

In accordance with the "National Development Plan of Latvia for 2014-2020 ", "Guidelines for the Development of Science, Technology and Innovation for 2014-2020 ", „Smart Specialization Strategy for 2014-2020”, “Education Development Guidelines for 2014-2020”, „Sport Policy Guidelines for 2014-2020” and „Public Health Guidelines for 2014-2020”, the modern practice has confirmed the need to promote the unity of sport science and health care in the field of sport. Since the main causes of death in Latvia are non-communicable illnesses, mainly cardiovascular diseases, and their development is largely influenced by factors related to lifestyle – unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity, while the most effective cardiovascular disease prevention is regular physical activity, the choice of a healthy diet and maintaining an adequate body weight, currently there is a need in the state to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable illnesses, decreasing the negative effects on health of the risk factors; thus, there is an inevitable need for cross-sectoral research and evidence-based action in the field of non-communicable illness prevention. The sport science has developed into a separate branch of science that studies the regularities of the development of physical health, development, fitness and sport achievements.

The following four key directions have been set in LASE scientific research:

1. Sport, sport education and socialization.

2. Promotion of public health – physical activity as a means of preventing non-communicable illnesses in people of various ages: folk sport, child and youth sport, adapted sport.

3. High achievement sport.

4. The socio-economic aspects of sport.

The scientific work at 6 LASE research laboratories is implemented in accordance with the established development directions in sport science and health care in sport and it is implemented by highly qualified academic and scientific staff.

The long-term goal of LASE is to develop and become a strong member organization of a national and international level in sport science and health care in sport, becoming a sport higher education institution with accredited academic study programmes in sport science and health care and several professional high quality, prestigious and internationally recognized study programmes, with development and implementation of international interuniversity study programmes in Master and Doctoral studies, emphasizing the importance of research and integration in the study process.

Sub-goals:

- The goal of LASE as a scientific institution is to develop scientific research and innovation into a competitive sector that satisfies the needs of the field of sport and health care and society of Latvia, emphasizing the growth of the capacity and quality of science and research.

-  The medium-term goal of LASE is to create a material and technical basis that will allow to provide studies and qualitative scientific research in the main scientific fields of the Academy’s operation – sport science and health care in sport – and will promote a strategic approach to the economic development (human resources, public health, methodology development for reaching of high sport achievements, etc.) and introduction of innovations.

In recent years LASE has placed emphasis of the optimal use of infrastructure on the development of specialized auditoriums and scientific research laboratories, purchase of scientific equipment. This choice of LASE development direction is determined by the need to ensure the opportunity to carry out full-fledged study and scientific research activities within the framework of the study process. Every year on average 3-5 budding scientists defend their Promotion Thesis at the LASE Promotion Board, while every year an average of 110 students study in Master studies and an average of 25-30 Doctoral students – in Doctoral studies. All budding and existing researchers, as well as representatives of professorship carry out scientific research, using the proposed opportunity to implement it in scientific research laboratories. Currently a topical issue is the optimization of the existing infrastructure at LASE – development of specialized auditoriums and scientific research laboratories within the framework of the study directions, as well as purchase of equipment. The intensity of use of LASE premises – 9.8 m2 per student, but the intensity of the use of equipment should be promoted, facilitating the concentration of investments, creating the Research Centre of Health Care in Sport, reducing the fragmentation in the objects to be modernized.

New scientists participate in conferences (scientific competitions) abroad. Non-formal educational activities for lecturers and Doctoral students are organized – International Summer Schools. Doctoral seminars are organized within the framework of the Baltic Sport Science Society (Baltic States, Poland and Spain). In Doctoral studies, student and lecturer exchange (ERASMUS) is organized within the framework of research, thus researchers of another state are involved in the research of the Doctoral Thesis (Estonian University of Tartu – Prof V. Oopik, Prof. M Paasuke; the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences (GIH) – Prof. R. Carlson, Prof. J. Nillson).

The high pedagogical and scientific qualification of the academic staff and researchers is implemented in cooperation with LOK (Latvian Olympic Committee, Whole Class Do Sport), LOV (Latvian Olympic Unit) and sports federations;

· close scientific cooperation with 39 foreign higher education institutions and scientific institutions;

· organization of the annual Baltic Sport Science Conference with the framework of the Baltic Sport Science Association; organization of LASE, Doctoral, Master and Bachelor conferences;

· every year 1-4 Promotion Thesis are defended at the LASE Promotion Board, obtaining a Doctoral scientific degree in sport science;

· organizing of LASE scientific equipment exhibitions within the framework of the European Researchers’ Night, informing sport and health care specialists, as well as the society about the methodology and opportunities of the equipment’s practical use;

· use of the potential of LASE research laboratories and centres for conducting research for the needs of students, lecturers and commercial structures;

· reflection of the LASE scientific capacity in the internationally cited English journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” and the collection of LASE scientific and methodological articles (www.lspa.lv/petniecība/zinatnikie_raksti)

In project "Innovative Physical Activity Measures in Health and Sport Science Studies" (Nr. EEZ/NFI/S/2015/021) with Norwegian School of Sport Science (NSSS) the aims to strengthen bilateral relations between higher education institutions in Norway and Latvia providing study programs in sport science and health care disciplines. The project activity outcome will be development and implementation of innovative study module on health and social indicators in inclusive physical activities at the Latvian Academy of Sport Education. This project will have synergy with the research project "Health and Social Indicators of Participation in Physical Activities for Children with Disabilities" (Nr. NFI/R/2014/070) coordinated by the LASE.

Research shows that sport is an important economic sector in the EU (2.98% of gross domestic product (294.36 billion Euro per year)), its share in national economies is important, it is comparable to the contribution to the economy provided by agriculture, forestry and fishery as a whole. In addition, the share of sport in national economies is expected to continue to grow in the future. Sport is a labour-intensive growth sector. The expected growth in the sports sector will create additional jobs, thus increasing overall employment, which in turn means that the sport sector will contribute to the achievement of the goals of „Europe 2020”. Sport can also contribute to convergence in all EU Member States. A research on the contribution of sport to economic growth and employment shows that production in sport and services will grow faster in low-income countries than in countries with higher income. By promoting the development of sport, it is possible to reduce the economic imbalances in the EU. Moreover, health care is one of the most important sectors, contributing to the economy (10% of gross domestic product), 8% of workers in the EU are employed in health care. It is essential to improve the health of people living in Latvia, bringing it closer to the best EU health indicators. Over the past decades, the sustainability of the health care system has been faced with a number of challenges – structural changes in demography and increase of morbidity in the EU. The financial and economic crisis is further aggravating these challenges. In Latvia, the indicator of healthy life years lags far behind the EU average indicators. As a result of population aging and changes in lifestyle, the illness trends will also change significantly, e.g. the spread of chronic illnesses will increase and people will more often suffer from multiple diseases at the same time. Therefore, new solutions are necessary – an innovative modernization of the health care system. Given the aging of society in the European Union and the heavy pressure of competitiveness exerted by globalization, further economic growth and creation of new jobs will depend on innovation regardless of whether or not they are related to products, services, processes, organization or business models. Innovative solutions for disease prevention, early diagnosis, monitoring and provision of independent life may have a crucial role in providing health, mobility and independence, and hence in improving the quality of life of the population, especially the elderly. By 2020, due to the aging of the workforce, there is expected an increase in the need for health care specialists in the labour market of the EU of up to 8 million.

The Latvian Academy of Sport Pedagogy (LASE) is one of several European universities/higher education institutions that implements the EU project “VSPORT +”. The main goal of the project – to develop an international valorisation framework in sport science to raise awareness of the Lifelong Learning Strategy for the Sport and Active Leisure Sector. Furthermore, this project supported the activities that introduced and implemented these strategies at EU, national, regional, local and international levels.

The Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (NSSS) and its structural units together with LASE implemented the international research project "Health and Social Indicators of Participation in Physical Activities for Children with Disabilities”, during which work was put into the analysis of results of the scientific project on the qualitative indicators of data replenishment, as well as into agreeing on the development process of international publications. As a result, an interdisciplinary health and social indicatormodel for the participation of children with disabilities in physical activities was created.

Participation in EU Expert Group on Human Resources Development in Sport(XG HR) (2015 – 2017) One of the work theme – Dual Career in Sport. The current situation is being researched by interviewing university sport functionaries and high-class athletes. Currently LASE students are interviewed – high-class athletes (members of national teams) on the opportunities to combine sport and studies, while showing good achievements in both directions.

Participation in EU project “European Physical Activity and Sports Monitoring System (EUPASMOS)”. Aim: to implement an EU Physical Activity and Sport Monitoring System, through the development of an integrated and shared methodological process that will provide comparable, valid and reliable PA and sport participation data across EU MS. This will support the EC, MS, WHO and other relevant organisations in the design, promotion, implementation and surveillance of effective and adjusted HEPA policies and strategies across Europe and governance levels.

Participation in EU as Expert from Latvia in the Expert work group created by the European Commission and EU Member States "Expert Group on Health-enhancing Physical Activity" (XG - HEPA)

Participation in EU as Expert from Latvia in the Expert work group created by (European Commission Expert Group "Skills and Human Resources Development in Sport") (XG HR).

• the high pedagogical and scientific qualification of the academic staff and researchers;
• successful research of indicators of high-class athletes in cooperation with LOV and sport federations;
• close scientific cooperation with 39 foreign higher education institutions and scientific institutions;
• every year 3-4 Promotion Thesis are defended at the LASE Promotion Board, obtaining a Doctoral scientific degree in sport science;
• use of the potential of LASE research laboratories and centres for conducting research for the needs of students, lecturers and commercial structures;

· Reflection of the LASE scientific capacity in the internationally cited English journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science”.

• insufficient provisions of state funding and support for the acquisition of scientific databases and the implementation of scientific research;
• high academic workload for the lecturers and researchers involved in research;
• lack of infrastructures and technologies for conducting innovative scientific research in sport and health care in sport.

• to develop closer research cooperation with other higher education institutions and research institutes in Latvia, especially within the framework of the academic Doctoral higher education programme „Sport Science”;
• to expand cooperation in research with higher education institutions and research institutions in the European Higher Education Area;
• to promote the development of the established research laboratories, emphasizing the provision of independent activities un self-financing in the process of project implementation, attracting the business resources interested in research;
• to improve the infrastructure for sport science and health care in sport by attracting state funding, financial resources from European projects and private entrepreneurs; Latvian Academy of Sport Education
• to promote offers of innovative ideas, promoting close cooperation with economic sectors to increase their productivity and to activate the transition to high-technology industries and products;

• starting from 2016, there will be no ensured state based funding for LASE sport science and health care research in sport, which will threaten the provision of the optimal level of physical health of the new generation;
• a change in the values of the society can be observed, which is largely evidenced by the opinion of the public that research in sport science and health care in sport cannot be considered as a guarantee of health and individual’s personality formation;
• lack of incentives to attract new specialists to research.

LASE is the only higher education institution in Latvia that implements sport science and it is one of the leading higher education institutions in the Baltics. In order to strengthen its position in the field of science, LASE is one of the higher education institutions that has founded and is active in the Baltic Sport Science Society. Every year the Baltic Sport Science conferences take place, gathering up to 250 sport scientists from 25 countries. Within the framework of BSSS, a scientific journal (database: (EBSCO, SportDiscus) has been created jointly with higher education institutions from the Baltic states, where it is possible to publish the latest scientific data. Young scientists (Master students, Doctoral students and teaching staff) in the field of sport education recreation gather from Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Croatia, Spain, Sweden, and Norwayevery year at theOUTDOOR SPORTS AND RECREATION EDUCATION SUMMER SCHOOL (OSRESS).  LASE teaching staff are members of various international associations (International Physical Education FIEPFÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE D´ÉDUCATION PHYSIQUE), as well as thePresident at European Federation of Adapted Physical is one of the leading LASE researchers. The international scientific journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” is already recognizable (ERIH, Copernicus, De Gruyter Open) and it is edited by scientists from 14 countries (Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Canada, Japan, Portugal, Israel, Germany, Slovakia, Finland, Spain) and sport scientists of various countries are publishing in it.

The Foundation for Global Community Health (GCH), a 501(c)(3) public charity was created to develop best practices regarding school-based well-being programs, provide peer-reviewed research, and bridge the resource gap preventing schools around the world from implementing research-validated programs.http://www.gchfoundation.org/index.html#about  

The ASEM Education and Research Hub for Lifelong Learning (ASEM LLL Hub) is an official network for university cooperation in Lifelong Learning Research between Asia and Europe.
The ASEM LLL Hub's operation is a part of the ASEM education process and it is a strong partner of the Asia Europe Foundation. The Hub brings together more than 100 researchers in its 5 research networks, senior representatives of 36 universities in its University Council and Senior Officials from 25 ministries of education and five flagship international organisations. Research Network 5 "ASEM LLL Core Competences" http://asemlllhub.org/researchnetworks/corecompetences/rn5members/

An international organisation working towards the development of the sport and active leisure sector, expert in building bridges between the worlds of education and employment and ensuring the development of a competent workforce with the right skills. http://eose.org/other-languages/latvijas/

LASE professors’ work in different higher education institutions both as teaching staff and in Promotional Boards and in development of Promotional Thesis as consultants and reviewers (University of Malaga, Lithuanian Sports University, Josef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, University of Ottawa and Hokkaido University of Education.

The operational goal of LASE scientific activity and development of innovation is to continue to develop and to become a strong higher education institution of an international level in sport science and health care in sport, systematically improving the accredited academic and professional study programmes, emphasizing the importance of research, innovation and integration. LASE scientific activity takes place in accordance with the LASE scientific research directions.

After graduation, LASE Doctoral students have the opportunity to participatein the operational programme “Growth and Employment” of the 1.1.1. specific support objective’s “To increase the research and innovation capacity of Latvian scientific institutions, as well as the ability to attract external funding by investing in human resources and infrastructure” 1.1.1.2. event “Research Support Post-Doctoral Studies”, indicating the following fields as priorities in the research project selection:

- improving public health through physical activity for people of all ages: folk sport, children and youth sport, adapted sport;

- high achievement sport;

- sport education and socialization;

- socio-economic aspects of sport.

The operational goal of LASE as a scientific institution is to create scientific research and innovations as a competitive field of sport and health care in Latvia that satisfies the needs of the society, emphasizing the growth of the scientific and research capacity and quality. Establishing a material and technical basis that will allow to provide qualitative scientific research in the main science fields of the Academy’s operation – in sport science and health care – will promote a strategic approach to economic development (human resources, public health, development of methodologies for achieving high athletic results, etc.) and implementation of innovations.

The main objectives:

1. the opportunities identified in the analysis of scientific activity and innovation development will be used to create new innovative products and to activate the transition towards high-technology industries and products. The development of a closer research cooperation is a prerequisite for the development of various interdisciplinary projects, the development of research and interdisciplinary end products of together with other higher education institutions and research institutes in Latvia.
2. a prerequisite for the creation of new innovative products, for example, in promoting public health, is the continuous improvement of the scientific infrastructure in sport science and health care in sport, bases, attracting state funding within the framework of performance funding and projects, within the framework of European projects and contract work, attracting private funding, as well as integrating the economic needs and demands into science;
3. improving the scientific infrastructure of LASE for the performance of innovative scientific research of scientific infrastructure in sport and health care in sport, attracting state funding, as well as financial resources from European projects and private entrepreneurs;
4. to improve the environment for conducting scientific activity and to increase the full-time equivalent (FTE) for both researchers and gradually to the majority of the teaching staff (FTE from 0.1 to 0.5) for conducting research work within the framework of one workload; introducing into practice a variety of innovative physical activity and sport training, sport and health learning technologies;  
5. to attract scientific and technical staff (hardware servicing staff);
6. to systematically raise the prestige of the sport and health care in sport as a field in the society by actively informing the society about the discoveries within them and their practical applications in everyday life (LASE website, press releases, scientific conferences, seminars, further education courses) as a guarantee of individual’s health and personality formation;
7. to expand the opportunities for attracting new specialists to research, additional funding for the accomplished research, ensuring the participation of new specialists in international conference, research projects and exchange programmes, to create an annual one-year scholarship for conducting a study necessary to the society;
8. in parallel to the Promotion Thesis, as dissertation, to encourage the Doctoral degree applicants to defend a thematically unified set of scientific publications or a monograph;
9. reflection of the scientific capacity in the LASE internationally quoted journal in English “LASE Journal of Sport Science”;
10. to establish the LASE Health Care in Sport and Sport Science Research Centre, in cooperation with the Sports Department of the Ministry of Education and Science of Republic of Latvia, functionally consolidating with the Olympic Committee (LOK), Latvian Paralympic Committee (LPK), Latvian Olympic Unit (LOV), Latvian Sports Federations Council (LSFP), Murjāņi Sports gymnasium, Olympic centres and sports federations in sport science and State sport medicine centre in health care in sport, as well as research in cooperation with other higher education institutions and research centres in Latvia, Europe, especially Baltic, Scandinavian and in the world, strengthening infrastructures, material and technical basis and the development of human resource provision, also attracting ERDF funds;
11. to develop cooperation with Madona municipality, (a sport centre for cyclic winter sports of an international level), establishing a branch of Sport Science Research Centres for winter and summer cyclic sports (biathlon, cross-country skiing, winter and summer orienteering, roller-skiing), providing support for athlete functionality and technical fitness testing, assessment and giving recommendations;
12. to promote fast action in conducting applied research, if taking immediate action is required, for the analysis of an element in high achievement sport and its implementation in practice together with practitioners, for instance, luge riders;
13. to strengthen the cooperation with sports federations, local governments and economic sectors to create innovations and high value-added products and technologies and to effectively coordinate the development of science and sport education and health care in sport;
14. to strengthen the existing material and technical base of LASE research laboratories and centres, which will promote research in public health and high achievement sport. In order to explore the opportunities for improving the quality of life for people of all ages and to encourage innovation creation in sport biomechanics, recreation, ergonomics, sport physiotherapy, in the perspective it is planned to involve full-time researchers.
15. sport science is an interdisciplinary branch of science, thus, to continue the development of the sport science branch in cooperation with Riga Stradiņš University (sport medicine), Riga Technical University (sport technologies), University of Latvia, Liepāja University, University of Daugavpils (dual career, sport pedagogy, didactics), National Defence Academy of Latvia (persons’ physical and functional abilities).

Within the framework of the Baltic Sport Science Association, together with partners from the University of Tartu (Estonia), Lithuanian Sports University (Lithuania) and Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education (Poland), to create a new Doctoral programme in English “Sport Science” and to implement it in practice by 2023.

In 2017, the research conducted by the World Bank on LASE states that it would be necessary for LASE to continue to strengthen the international cooperation as a strategic priority, taking into account the close link between research and teaching, as well as the high-quality education process. The development of LASE academic staff and career support would be provided by a more systematic approach as part of a comprehensive LASE staff management policy, where academic career development opportunities are provided if Doctoral students are employed after obtaining the Doctoral degree. It is also necessary to include different competence development opportunities not only for the academic staff, but also for Doctoral students. However, the LASE evaluation report “The Investors in Excellence Standard” performed in December 2017 stated that it is necessary to invest in employee development, but it is also important to take into consideration the limited financial opportunities of LASE for investing in employee development in raising competence.

The age structure of the LASE academic staff envisages targeted activities by LASE to change the employee age structure, promoting recruitment, integration and teaching of younger employees. The renewal of the academic staff is aimed at a gradual formation of the LASE new scientist generation and ensuring the development of succession, when the senior lecturers transfer knowledge and skills to younger lecturers with the aim to preserve the intellectual capital created by LASE, while evaluating the contribution of experienced lecturers. LASE needs to develop programmes for attracting outstanding young scientists and for further work at the Academy. The renewal of the academic staff is facilitated by the increase of the number of Doctoral students and the promotion of the development of Doctoral student academic career, promoting the interest of young lecturers and their willingness to start and continue their career at LASE in order to ensure a qualitative study process and research.

During the reporting period, by using the ERDF operational programme "Entrepreneurship and innovation" additional 2.1.1.3.2. sub-activities "Improvement of information technology infrastructure and information systems for scientific activities", the project „Creation of a United National Academic Network of Latvia for Ensuring Scientific Activity” was implemented, the goal of which is to establish a next-generation data transmission network for ensuring scientific activity and to improve information systems in state scientific institutions and higher education institutions. Provision of development and efficiency of the implemented scientific ICT (information and communication technology) infrastructure, within the framework of which the establishment of the Latvian academic network of state importance took place, as well as the development and equipping of a shared data centre, development of a joint access and modernization for foreign academic networks and scientific libraries. Improvement of the competitiveness of science and research, through which the purchase of technological resources to modernize the research infrastructure of project cooperation partners took place. Modernization of the management and administration of the science, research and teaching process through the establishment of the National Scientific Information System. As a result, the Latvian academic network of national significance was established for the provision of scientific activity and research, which provides an opportunity to improve the current activity and return of the science branch, to provide researchers with opportunities to fully and effectively participate in science activities of Europe and the world, as well as to ensure the full exploitation of the potential of the respective field.

In addition to the already existing 10 LASE research laboratories, two new ones were created - Kinesiology Research Laboratory and Physical Work Capacity Research Laboratory, as well as additional research equipment was also equipped – Strength platforms BTS P-6000 (Italy), Video system BTS VIXTA (Italy), Pulse Meter System POLAR TEAM SYSTEM (USA), Treadmill LIFE FITNESS (USA) and Electromyograph BTS FREEEMG 100

ERDF support for research institutions and higher education institutions is provided within the framework of the planning document – operational programme "Growth and Employment" of the 8.1.1. specific support objective "To increase the number of modernized STEM study programmes, including medicine and creative industries". Within the framework of the project, the Academy develops infrastructure for the needs of STEM study programmes, improves the premises of the LASE central building, purchases equipment, hardware, computer equipment, inventory and develops a modern study and scientific research working environment.

An innovative, research-based international interuniversity joint Doctoral study programme “Sport Science” by the Latvian Academy of Sport Education. The project objective is to reduce the fragmentation of study programmes and to strengthen the sharing of resources in the Latvian Academy of Sport Education by developing an innovative, research-based international interuniversity joint Doctoral study programme «Sport Science».

Main project activities:

1. International publicity of the new study programme developed within the framework of the project and informative and publicity events on the implementation of the project.
2. Development and licensing of a new joint Doctoral study programme” Sport Science” (51813) implemented in languages of the European Union; 
3. Approbation of a new joint Doctoral study programme” Sport Science” (51813) implemented in languages of the European Union, including events for experience exchange;
4. Accreditation of the study direction, which corresponds to the joint Doctoral study programme “Sport Science” (51813) developed within the framework of the project, at the EQAR Agency;
5. Management of the project and ensuring of project implementation.

Planned results of the project:

1. One closed study programme (by June 30,
2. One new joint Doctoral study programme, the development and implementation of which is supported by the European Social Fund and which has received accreditation by the EQUAR Agency.

LASE Science Strategies for 2018–2024 have been developed and they clearly define 4 research directions:

1. Improving public health through physical activity for people of all ages: folk sport, children and youth sport, adapted sport;

2. High achievement sport;

3. Sport education and socialization;

4. Socio-economic aspects of sport.

The editorial board of the magazine Lase Journal of Sport  Science has been expended with members from 9 new countries – Spain, Canada, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, Japan, Russia. http://journal.lspa.lv/index.php/2015-03-04-08-25-13/international-editorial-board

Cooperation agreements with various higher education institutions have been highlighted in terms of research. https://www.lspa.lv/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2688:veselbas-un-socilie-indikatori-brnu-ar-invaliditti-dalbai-fizisks-aktivitts&catid=266:projekta-aktualittes&Itemid=477

The Foundation for Global Community Health (GCH), a 501(c)(3) public charity was created to develop best practices regarding school-based well-being programs, provide peer-reviewed research, and bridge the resource gap preventing schools around the world from implementing research-validated programs.http://www.gchfoundation.org/index.html#about  

An international organisation working towards the development of the sport and active leisure sector, expert in building bridges between the worlds of education and employment and ensuring the development of a competent workforce with the right skills. http://eose.org/other-languages/latvijas/

Research Group for Adapted Physical Activity and Psychomotor Rehabilitation https://www.kuleuven.be/wieiswie/en/person/00075262. EUROPEAN UNIVERSITY DIPLOMA IN ADAPTED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. http://www.haaga-helia.fi/en/education/non-degree-programmes-0/eudapa?userLang=en . International Blind Sport Association (IBSA). European Network of Physiotherapy in Higher Education. European Sports Medicine Association.

ERDF support for research institutions and higher education institutions is provided within the framework of the planning document – operational programme "Growth and Employment" of the 8.1.1. specific support objective "To increase the number of modernized STEM study programmes, including medicine and creative industries". Within the framework of the project, the Academy develops infrastructure for the needs of STEM study programmes, improves the premises of the LASE central building, purchases equipment, hardware, computer equipment, inventory and develops a modern study and scientific research working environment. http://www.lspa.eu/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=275&Itemid=549

In order to increase the LASE Journal of Sport Science, indexing has been done in the ERIH database. https://dbh.nsd.uib.no/publiseringskanaler/erihplus/periodical/info.action?id=481328

Despite the fact that the government and external funding is not enough, LASE itself provides funding for the development of science.

Academic personnel

(relevant only to universities and higher

education institutions)

Visiting Professors and lectures

(according to the Law of Higher

Education Institutions)

Reports on research results from

applied research or industry commerce, non-governmental institutions, state and municipality institutions

1. 1.Latvian Luge Federation – based on research findings and conclusions, to accordingly improve the training of high-class luge athletes
2. 2.Sia “Air Baltic Training” – Monitoring of BBT New Pilots’ Physical Fitness
3. 3.Latvian Plympic Committee – “Whole Class Do Sport”
4. 4.SIA “RicBerry” – “Ogu enerģētiskō produktu iedarbības pamatojums uz 4 mērķa grupām, tai skaitā sportistiem” (Rationale for effects of berry energy products on 4 target groups, including athletes)
5. 5.LU Faculty of Biology – “Metaboli nelabvēlīgās adipozitātes risku un tās samazināšanās iespēju izvērtējums jaunu cilvēku populācijā” (Assessment of the risks of metabolic adverse adiposity and its reduction potential in youth)
6. 6.EEA and Norway Grant – “Health and Social Indicators of Participation in Physical Activities for Children with Disabilities”
7. 7.ERDF – “Nanolīmenī modificētu tekstīliju virsmu pārklājumu sintēze un enerģētiski neatkarīgas mērīšanas sistēmas integrācija viedapģērbā ar medicīnisko novērojumu funkcijām” (Synthesis of nano-modified textile surface coating and integration of an energetically independent measurement system in smart clothing with medical observation features)
8. 8.EU project – “A European Sector Skills Alliance for Sport and Physical Activity (ESSA-Sport)”
9. 9.Nord Plus Visby programme Linkoping University – “The Physical Health in Baltic Youth Study”
10. 10.EEA and Norway Grant – “Indicators of Inclusive Education”
11. 11.Council of Europe Pestalozzi programme – “Pestelozzi Modules for Trainer Physical education and sport for demoncacy and human rights”
12. 12.Bilateral agreement between LASE and Tartu University – ”Determination of Athletes Body Hydration Degree and its Effects on Performance”
13. 13.MoES – “Sportista kondīcijas optimizācija pirms sacensībām”, “minerālvielu koncentrāciju ietekme uz veģetatīvo nervu sistēmas un muskuļu neiromuskulatūrās regulācijas un sportista darbaspēju atjaunošanās pētīšanai augstas klases sportistiem” (Optimizing condition of an athlete before competitions, influence of mineral concentrations on vegetative nervous system and muscle neuromuscular regulation, and regeneration of athlete working ability for high-class athletes)
14. 14.Madona municipality – “Fiziskās rekreācijas veidi 45-55 gadus vecu cilvēku fiziskās veselības un pašsajūtas uzlabošanai” (Physical recreation types for the improvement of physical health and mood of 45-55 year-olds)
15. 15.LZP grant – “Izglītības sistēmas kvalitātes, mūžizglītības, iekļaujošās un mēdiju pedagoģijas pētījums Latvijā un starptautiskā kontekstā”(Study of education system quality, lifelong learning, inclusive and media pedagogy in Latvia and in international context)
16. 16.The project support from the Swedish Institute – “Elite Sport Training in Upper Secondary Education” – Models for Sportive Success (Sweden, Latvia, Poland, Russia, Belarus)

1. Brian, A., De Meester, A., Klavina A., Taunton, S., Pennell, A., Irwin, J.M., Lieberman, L., Haerens, L. (2018). PREDICTORS OF AUTONOMOUS MOTIVATION FOR ADOLESCENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS FROM THE UNITED STATES AND LATVIA: A CROSS-CULTURAL EXAMINATION. Journal Of Sport & Exercise Psychology. Vol40, ppS78-S79, Supplement S, Web of Science, Impact factor 2.41
2. Klavina A. (2018). HIGHER EDUCATION IN EUROPE ON 'ADAPTED, ADAPTIVE AND ADAPTING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY'. Journal Of Physical Activity & Health,
3. Brian, A., De Meester, A., Klavina, A. et.al (2018). PREDICTORS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG LATVIAN AND US CHILDREN/ADOLESCENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS

Journal Of Sport & Exercise Psychology   Vol.40   Supplement:S,   pp S21-S21. Web of Science,Impact Factor 1.173

1. Kalnina, L., Sauka, M., Timpka, T., Dahlstrom, O., Nylander, E., Selga, G.,Ligere, R., Karklina, H., Priedite, I.S., Larins, VBODY FAT IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS PARTICIPATING IN ORGANIZED SPORTS: DESCRIPTIVE EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY OF 6048 LATVIAN ATHLETES. Scandinavian Journal Of Public Health, 43, Issue:6, Pages: 615-622, Web of Science, Impact factor 1.646
2. Block, M. E., Hutzler, Y., Barak, S., Klavina A et.al (2013). CREATION AND VALIDATION OF THE SELF-EFFICACY INSTRUMENT FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER EDUCATION MAJORS TOWARD INCLUSION. Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly 
3. Kiitam, U., Voitkevica, L.,Timpmann, S.,Pontaga, I., Ereline, J., Unt, E.,Oopik, V., (2018)

PRE-PRACTICE HYDRATION STATUS IN SOCCER (FOOTBALL) PLAYERS IN A COOL ENVIRONMENT. Medicina-Lithuania,  Vol.54, Issue:6, Article No: UNSP 102, Web of Science, Impact Factor 1.429

1. Vazne, Z., Zidens, J., Grants J. et al. (2018) THE DEPENDENCE OF LATVIAN HANDBALL PLAYERS' EFFECTIVENESS IN COMPETITIONS ON PSYCHOLOGICAL INDICATORS. Transformations In Business & Economics 
2. Greblikaite, J., Sroka, W., Grants J. (2015) DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN EUROPEAN UNION: POLICY AND SITUATION OF LITHUANIA AND POLAND. Transformations In Business & EconomicsWeb of Science, Impact Factor 1.112
3. Rahman, Yasin, R.M., Buang, N.A.,Oganisjana, K.,Fernate, A.,Koke, T. (2015)

USING PROBLEM-FOCUSED APPROACH TO NURTURE CREATIVITY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP AMONG STUDENTS. Conference: Proceedings of 6^th World Conference on Educational Sciences Location: Grand Hotel Excelsior Convention Center, Valletta, MALTA Date: FEB 06-09, Proceedings of 6th World Conference on Educational Sciences   Book Series: Procedia Social and Behavioral Sciences  Vol. 191   pp 2782-2786, Web of Science

1. Oks, A., Katashev, A., Bernans, E.; et al. (2017) A COMPARISON OF THE ACCURACY OF THE SMART SOCK SYSTEM TO FORCE PLATFORM AND OPTICAL SYSTEM FOR MEASUREMENT OF TEMPORAL PARAMETERS OF LOCOMOTION. Conference: 17th World Textile Conference of the Association-of-Universities-for-Textiles (AUTEX) - Shaping the Future of Textiles Location: GREECE Date: MAY 29-31, 2017,  17TH WORLD TEXTILE CONFERENCE AUTEX 2017 - SHAPING THE FUTURE OF TEXTILES   Book Series: IOP Conference Series-Materials Science and Engineering   Volume: 254     Article Number: UNSP 072017, Web of Science
2. Cuprika, A., Fernate, A., Cupriks, L. (2014). CHARACTERIZATION OF WOMEN'S GENERAL HEALTH AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN FITNESS. Conference: International Scientific Conference on Society, Integration, Education Location: Rezekne, LATVIA Date: MAY 23-24, 2014  Sponsor(s): Rezekne Higher Educ Inst; Fac Educ & Design; Personal Socializat Res Inst. SOCIETY, INTEGRATION, EDUCATION, VOL III, 2014   Book Series: Sabiedriba Integracija Izglitiba-Society Integration Education   Pages: 379-390, Web of Science  
3. Sislova, Eleonora; Fernate, AndraPREVIOUS EXPERIENCE OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT HIGH SCHOOL. Conference: International Scientific Conference on Society, Integration, Education Location: Rezekne Acad Technologies, Rezekne, LATVIA Date: MAY 25-26, 2018  Sponsor(s): Klaipeda Univ; Rigas Stradina Univ; Rezekne Acad Technologies, Fac Educ Language & Design. SOCIETY, INTEGRATION, EDUCATION: HIGHER EDUCATION   Book Series: Sabiedriba Integracija Izglitiba-Society Integration Education   Pages: 524-535, Web of Science
4. Klavina, Aija; Zusa-Rodke, Anna; Galeja, Zinta
5. Rodionova, Karina; Klavina, AijaTHE IMPACT OF DIFFERENT CHARACTERISTICS AND MODALITIES OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON HEALTH VARIABLES IN ELDERLY PEOPLE WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES. Conference: International Scientific Conference on Society, Integration, Education Location: Rezekne, LATVIA Date: MAY 27-28, 2016.  Sponsor(s): Rezekne Acad Technologies, Fac Educ Language & Design; Siauliai Univ; Univ Studi Bari Aldo Moro; Rigas Stardina Univ; BIMM. SOCIETY, INTEGRATION, EDUCATION, VOL. III   Book Series: Sabiedriba Integracija Izglitiba-Society Integration Education   Pages: 533-541, Web of Science
6. Pontaga, Inese; Zidens, JanisCOMPARISON OF LATVIAN QUALIFIED BASKETBALL AND HANDBALL PLAYERS PERFORMANCE. Conference: International Scientific Conference on Society, Integration, Education Location: Rezekne Acad Technologies, Rezekne, LATVIA Date: MAY 25-26, 2018.  Sponsor(s): Klaipeda Univ; Rigas Stradina Univ; Rezekne Acad Technologies, Fac Educ Language & Design. SOCIETY, INTEGRATION, EDUCATION, VOL IV: SPORTS AND HEALTH ART AND DESIGN   Book Series: Sabiedriba Integracija Izglitiba-Society Integration Education   Pages: 211-221, Web of Science

Monta

JAKOVĻEVA

Period

(from – to)

Development of a methodological handbook for sport activities.

Development of methodology for functional property measurements and performance of measurements for children.

1. VS “Traumatoloģijas un ortopēdijas slimnīca”, Raivis Aršauskis Health Center

National conferences, workshops and seminars

organised by the institution/ assessment entity

Period

(from – to)

Prof. Juris Grants

Asahikawa,

Japan

2018/05

Research Methodology in Sport Science, Master Program

Prof. Aija Kļaviņa

Assist. Karīna Ostrovska

International research project

"Health and social indicators for participation in physical activity for children with disabilities”

Research Methodology in Sport Science, DSoctoral Program

Name of visitor

(include full academic or job title)

Period

(from – to)

Dalarna University, Falun,

Sweden

Doctoral

lectures

Doctoral

lectures

Doctoral Theses

Article in the LASE journal of Sport Science

Assoc. Prof. Arturs Litwiniuk

Assoc Prof. Krzystof Piech

Doctoral

lectures

Doctoral Theses

Article in the LASE journal of Sport Science

Develop and strengthen the potential of Latvian higher education and research institutes by increasing availability of high quality higher education and research

International keynote speech: „Sport Psychology – needs and perspectives for research, education and application”.

 (6th Baltic Scientific Conference Sport Science for Sustainable Society).„Conceptual and methodological issues (in the measurement) in sport psychology research” . Consultations for Doctoral students.

Dr. Sharon Tsuk,

Dr. Yael Pernick

Dr.Nili Steinberg-Knopp 

Period

(from – to) / permanently

Monetary value

(RI share) EUR

Participation in contributing to research and scientific accomplishments in the areas of common interests.

Joint organisation of conferences, seminar and workshops.

Educational and popularising activities aimed at promoting scientific accomplishments.

Research projects, Master Theses

Participation in contributing to research and scientific accomplishments in the areas of common interests.

Joint organisation of conferences, seminar and workshops.

Educational and popularising activities aimed at promoting scientific accomplishments.

Doctoral Theses

Article in the LASE journal of Sport Science

Doctoral Theses

Article in the LASE journal of Sport Science

Doctoral Theses

Article in the LASE journal of Sport Science

1. Norwegian School of Sport Science

2. Latvian Outdoor Sports and Recreation Education federation

Topic of presentation

(link if available)

The 11^th Conference of the Baltic Sport Science Society

April 26-28, 2017 Riga, Latvia

The 10^th Conference of the Baltic Sport Science Society

April 26-28, 2017 Riga, Latvia

The 9^th Conference of the Baltic Sport Science Society

April 27-29, 2016 Kaunas, Lithuania

The 7^th Conference of the Baltic Sport Science Society

My, 7-9, 2014, Tartu Estonia

Zermena Vazne,

Overview on the research of athletes psychological preparation

aspects carried out in Latvia.

2^nd International Scientific Conference 6^th ISSSS

Conference Sport and Leisure Management: Tendencies and Challenges. 2014/4-5^th December). Kaunas, Lithuania,

Book of

Abstracts. pp.100-102. ISSN 2335-2248

The physical education teachers` competences in a learning society”,

International Scientific Practical Conference «Sports Reserv System Hestourex World Health Sport Tourism Congress & Exhibition,

Antalya, Turkey, April 6-9, 2017.

Qualitative research on dual career for professional athletes in Latvia: Inductive Approach.

1. Journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” Journal of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga, Latvia, Chief Editor (www.journal.lspa.lv)

2. Journal “Baltic Journal of Sport and Health Sciences”, Journal of the Baltic Sport Science Society, Deputy Editors in Chief

3. Journal “Sport Science” (Sporto Mokslas), Journal of Lithuanian University of Educational Sciences, Lithuanian Sports University, Lithuanian Olympic Academy, Lithuania, Member of Editorial Board

4. Journal “Polish Journal of Sport and Tourism”, Journal of Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Poland, Member of Editorial Board

5. Journal “Journal of Outdoor Activities” of University of Jan Evangelista Purkyne Usti nad Labem, Czech Republic, Member of Editorial Board

6. Journal “Motus in Verbo: Young Scientist Journal” of University of Mateja Bela, Banska Bystrica, Slovakia, Member of Editorial Board

7. Journal “Human and Health” of Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, Polska, Member of Editorial Board

8. Journal of Applied Sport Sciences of the National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria, Member of Editorial Board

9. Journal “Leisure researches” of the Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania, Member of Editorial Board

10. Journal “Journal of Physical Education and Human Movement (JPEHM)” of University of Malaga (Spain) and in co-direction with Quality Leadership University (Panama), Member of Editorial Team

2010 up to now

2010 up to now

2015 up to now

2014 up to now

Journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” Journal of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga, Latvia, Member of Editorial Board (www.journal.lspa.lv)

The Journal of Education Culture and Society. ISSN 2081-1640, zinātniskā recenzente (http://joedcuso.eu/Journal/People) .

ECER 2010-2019 konferences 11. tīkla “Educational Effectiveness and Quality Assurance” zinātnisko rakstu pieteikumu recenzēšana. https://eera-ecer.de/networks/11-educational-improvement-and-quality-assurance/convenors/

2010 up to now

2012 – up to now

2010-2019

Journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” Journal of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga, Latvia, Member of Editorial Board (www.journal.lspa.lv)

Journal “Baltic Journal of Sport and Health Sciences”, Journal of the Baltic Sport Science Society, Member of Editorial Board

2010 up to now

2015 up to now

Journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” Journal of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga, Latvia, Member of Editorial Board (www.journal.lspa.lv)

“Acta Facultatis Educationis Physicae Universitatis Comenianae”, e-ISSN: 2585-8777 (Bratislava, Slovākija). https://content.sciendo.com/view/journals/afepuc/afepuc- overview.xml

«Наука и спорт: современныетенденции»,

ISSN 2308-8826 (Kazan, Russia) https://www.sportacadem.ru/files/tom_15_2.pdf

2010 up to now

2015 up to now

2014 up to now

Journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” Journal of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga, Latvia, Member of Editorial Board (www.journal.lspa.lv)

Journal “Baltic Journal of Sport and Health Sciences”, Journal of the Baltic Sport Science Society, Deputy Editors in Chief

Journal “Sport Science” (Sporto Mokslas), Journal of Lithuanian University of Educational Sciences, Lithuanian Sports University, Lithuanian Olympic Academy, Lithuania, Member of Editorial Board

2010 up to now

2015 up to now

2014 up to now

Journal “LASE Journal of Sport Science” Journal of the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga, Latvia, Member of Editorial Board (www.journal.lspa.lv)

Baltic Journal of Sport and Health Sciences

2010 up to now

2015 up to now

Expert. Latvian Council of Science. Expert of Promotion Council in Sport Science field;

Expert- Lithuanian Sport University, Tartu University, Malaga University, J. Pilsutski Warsaw Sport Education University    doctoral commission expert;

Baltic Sport Science Society - president

Expert. Latvian Council of Science. Expert of Promotion Council in Sport Science field;

Expert- Lithuanian Sport University, Doctoral commission expert;

Expert – RPIVA, doctoral commission expert;

(2011-2018)

(2015-2016)

 (2015)

Expert. Latvian Council of Science. Expert of Promotion Council in Sport Science  and Pedagogy field;

Expert from Latvia in the Expert work group created by the European Commission and EU Member States "Expert Group on Health-enhancing Physical Activity" (XG - HEPA)

European Commission Expert Group “Skills and Human Resources Development in Sport” (XG HR)

Council of Europe Pestalozzi Programme, Pestalozzi Modules for Trainer Training „Physical education and sport for democracy and human rights”, Nr. CoE 2014 1021-1024 SPORT, expert

(2011-2018)

2014 - 2017

2018 -

06.2014.- 06.2015

https://eacea.ec.europa.eu/sites/eacea-site/files/recommendations_pe_at_schools_2015.pdf

▪President European Federation in Adapted Physical Activity (EUFAPA)

▪present President-Elect, European Federation in Adapted Physical Activity (EUFAPA)

▪Education Committee Member, International Paralympic Committee

▪ present Board Member, Latvian Physiotherapy Association

▪European Representative, International Federation in Adapted Physical Activity

▪Expert. Latvian Council of Science. Expert of Promotion Council in Sport Science field;

2018 up to now

2014 - 2018

2012 – 2014

Since 2014

2008 -2014

2011-2018

Imants Upītis, Patents, LASE, Latvia

https://www.lrpv.gov.lv/sites/default/files/20140620.pdf

Research project, Latvian Olympic Committee

Sources of

funding

Total

2013-2018

The Swedish Institute Baltic Sea Region Cooperation

Elite Sport Training in Upper Secondary Education - Models for Sportive Success

„VSPORT” 

Support for Collaborative Partnerships in the field of Sport