Stevo Popovic1,2,3, Jovan Gardasevic1, Milena Mitrovic1, Ivan Jovancevic1, Ling Yan4,
Dong Wang4, Yan Liang4, Gang He4
1University of Montenegro, Faculty for Sport and Physical Education, Niksic, Montenegro, 2Western Balkan Sport Innovation Lab, Podgorica, Montenegro, 3Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 4Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, School of Kinesiology and Health, Beijing, China
Physical Literacy Assessment Protocol (PLAP): A Comprehensive Methodological Framework for Monitoring School-Based Physical Literacy in Children and Adolescents
Innov. Technol. Sport Phys. Act. 2025, 4(2), 31-36 DOI: 10.56886/itspa.251205
Abstract
This protocol was developed to enable evaluators to collect up-to-date data and generate comprehensive annual assessments of physical literacy (PL) among school-aged children and adolescents, using a set of key measurable criteria. Its purpose is to establish a robust methodological framework for monitoring school-based PL in this population. The Physical Literacy Assessment Protocol (PLAP) offers a standardized framework for identifying relevant trends and barriers affecting the development of physical literacy within educational settings. The protocol proposes 18 sociodemographic indicators, sourced from publicly accessible global databases, to describe the demographic and contextual profiles of participating countries. In addition, four operational dimensions comprising 12 content indicators have been specifically designed to assess core elements of PL: motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and environmental support. Each content indicator is assessed independently through a ten-point grading scale, enabling the synthesis of results into an evidence-based Country Card. The PLAP will also serve as the foundation for annual evaluator meetings, where national research teams collaboratively analyze outcomes and develop tailored national reports. These outputs aim to bridge the gap between research and educational practice, and to support policy development and school-based interventions that foster lifelong physical activity through targeted PL enhancement.
Keywords
physical literacy, school-based assessment, children and adolescents, monitoring protocol, health promotion
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