ACA Paddle Sports Program Design & Curriculum Development 3

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a post-session debrief in ACA paddling instruction?

Accepted Answer

To reinforce key learning, address student questions, and connect experiences to course objectives

Answer

A structured debrief consolidates learning by helping students articulate what they experienced, connect it to objectives, and identify what they will practice next, deepening retention.

Question 2

Which feedback approach is most effective when correcting a paddling student's technique in an ACA course?

Accepted Answer

Provide specific, timely, constructively framed feedback focused on one or two key changes at a time

Answer

Timely, specific, limited feedback prevents information overload, allows students to act on the correction immediately while the movement is fresh, and builds confidence through achievable incremental improvements.

Question 3

What does ACA recommend as the role of a 'capstone experience' at the end of a paddling course?

Accepted Answer

To allow students to demonstrate and integrate all skills learned through a realistic paddling scenario

Answer

A capstone experience gives students the opportunity to apply all course competencies in an authentic context, demonstrating readiness to paddle independently in real-world conditions.

Question 4

In ACA program design, why are reflection activities included after on-water paddling sessions?

Accepted Answer

They deepen learning by encouraging students to process and internalize their experiences

Answer

Reflection bridges raw experience and lasting learning by prompting students to consciously analyze what they did, why it worked or did not, and how to apply the insight going forward.

Question 5

What is the primary consideration when an ACA instructor selects a teaching site for a paddling course?

Accepted Answer

Site conditions must be appropriate for the skill level being taught and allow for safe instruction

Answer

Site selection must first ensure conditions match student skill level and instructional goals — placing beginners in conditions beyond their ability creates unnecessary risk and inhibits learning.

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

ACA Paddle Sports Program Design & Curriculum Development 3