Paddle Sports Program Design & Curriculum Development Flashcards

In ACA curriculum design, what does the 'whole-part-whole' teaching method involve?

Answer: Teaching the complete skill overview, isolating specific components for practice, then reintegrating the full skill

The whole-part-whole method presents the complete skill first so students understand context, breaks it into components for focused practice, then reassembles the skill so students can apply it holistically.

Which student-to-instructor ratio does ACA typically recommend for beginner flatwater kayaking courses?

Answer: 8:1

ACA generally recommends no more than 8 students per instructor for beginner flatwater kayaking to ensure adequate supervision and individualized attention.

What is the primary benefit of using guided discovery as a teaching method in ACA paddling instruction?

Answer: Students develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of techniques

Guided discovery encourages students to explore and figure out solutions themselves, building critical thinking and a deeper, more durable understanding of paddling technique.

When planning an ACA beginner kayaking course, which topic should be prioritized in the very first session?

Answer: Safety procedures, wet exit, and basic boat control

Safety procedures, wet exit practice, and basic boat control must be established first so students can manage capsize situations before any further skills are introduced.

In ACA instructional design, what does 'progressive skill building' primarily mean?

Answer: Introducing increasingly complex skills that build upon previously learned foundations

Progressive skill building sequences instruction so each new skill logically builds on established competencies, reducing frustration and supporting safe skill development.

What is the primary purpose of clearly defined learning objectives in an ACA paddling lesson plan?

Answer: To give both instructor and students a shared understanding of what will be achieved

Clear learning objectives align instructor planning with student expectations, ensuring everyone understands the goals and allowing instruction to be evaluated against measurable outcomes.

What does ACA recommend as the first step when designing a new paddling program?

Answer: Defining the target audience, skill level, and desired learning outcomes

Identifying who the program serves and what participants should be able to do upon completion is the foundation from which all other curriculum decisions — equipment, site, sequencing — must flow.