ACA Certification & Standards Flashcards
6 cards from real ACA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 ACA Certification & Standards flashcards as text
What are the ACA's main instructor certification disciplines?
Answer: Kayaking, canoe, SUP, rafting, and adaptive paddling
The ACA offers instructor certifications across kayaking, canoe, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), rafting, and adaptive paddling for individuals with disabilities.
What is an ACA 'Competency Assessment' in the instructor certification process?
Answer: A practical on-water evaluation where the candidate demonstrates paddling skills and teaching ability
The Competency Assessment is a hands-on evaluation in which the instructor candidate demonstrates both paddling skills and the ability to teach those skills effectively.
What does the ACA 'Level 4' kayaking instructor certification allow an instructor to teach?
Answer: Up to and including Class IV whitewater kayaking
ACA Level 4 whitewater kayaking instructor certification qualifies instructors to teach on up to Class IV whitewater rivers.
Under ACA standards, what must an instructor do if a student's medical condition could pose a risk during a paddle session?
Answer: Review the medical form, consult as needed, and make an informed inclusion/modification decision before the session
Instructors must review participant medical information, consider any risks, and adapt the activity or consult medical professionals as appropriate before the session begins.
What is the purpose of the ACA's 'incident reporting' system?
Answer: To collect safety data, identify trends, and improve paddling standards across the organization
ACA incident reporting provides aggregate safety data that helps the organization identify hazard patterns and continuously improve curricula and standards.
What is the ACA's policy on instructor candidates with criminal backgrounds involving minors?
Answer: ACA requires background checks for instructors working with youth and may deny certification for disqualifying offenses
The ACA requires background checks for instructors working with youth and can disqualify candidates with relevant criminal histories to protect program participants.