Palacký University Olomouc, through its Faculty of Physical Culture, is launching a new international project titled COOL-APA (Collaborative Online and Onsite Learning in Applied Physical Activity), aimed at transforming the teaching of applied physical activity (APA) across Europe. Bringing together six partner universities, the project has been awarded a grant of EUR 400,000 under the Erasmus+ programme and will, over the next 28 months, deliver innovative learning modules, digital tools, and enhanced support for students and individuals with special needs.
The main goal of COOL-APA is to raise awareness of applied physical activity among students in fields such as sport, rehabilitation, education, social work, and healthcare. The project also seeks to promote greater participation of individuals with special needs in both structured and independent physical and sporting activities. A key focus will be the development of inclusive and accessible digital tools and pedagogical approaches that ensure equitable access to education for all students.
Over the 28-month implementation period (from 1 September 2025 to 31 December 2027), the project will develop six educational modules, each worth five ECTS credits. These modules will form the core of a certified learning programme with European reach. The curriculum will be tailored to the needs of its target groups, with a strong emphasis on accessibility, conflict resolution, and the development of key competencies among both students and educators. Students who successfully complete all 30 credits will receive a European Certificate in Applied Physical Activity.
The project brings together six partner institutions:
- Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences (Finland),
- Munster Technological University (Ireland),
- Lithuanian Sports University (Lithuania),
- National University of Ukraine on Physical Education and Sport (Ukraine),
- Rivne State University of Humanities (Ukraine),
- and Palacký University Olomouc (Czech Republic).
The Faculty of Physical Culture at Palacký University contributes to the project through the expertise of its Centre for Adapted Physical Activities (CAPA), which has long supported inclusive physical activity initiatives at both the national and international levels. CAPA collaborates with communities, schools, and specialized institutions, offering a wide range of programmes—from Paralympic School Days to support for inclusive physical education teaching.
Participation in the COOL-APA project confirms the Faculty’s strong international position in the field of APA and builds on its previous involvement in the successful European Diploma in Adapted Physical Activity (EUDAPA) programme, which trained hundreds of students from across Europe, including the Czech Republic. This new and ambitious project will further strengthen the Faculty’s ability to create innovative and inclusive educational environments that respond to the evolving needs of both students and society.