General Information for Pre- and Post-conference Certification Sessions

The Adventure Group Symposium

October 9 and October 12-13, 2008

This information is a combination of information set forth by The Association for Challenge Course Technology Practitioner Certification Standards issued June 2007 and the curriculum standards set forth by the certifying Professional Vendor Members, Alpine Towers International (ATI) and Cornerstone Designs (CDI). The Adventure Group (TAG) provides management of tests, trainings, and membership services for certifications for both ATI and CDI.

Basic information regarding certification testing:

Minimum age for Level I / II is 18.
Minimum age for Challenge Course Manager (CCM) is 21.
To receive certification, both written and practical exams must be passed.
Written exams require 80% to pass.
Practical skill exams (PSE) require 100% to pass (PSE = full demonstration of test taker's ability to perform required skills satisfactorily as determined by the Certification Tester).
Failure to pass written exam requires a complete written retest (cannot just correct wrong answers--a new version of the test will be administered). Test Takers are required to climb, belay, spot, tie knots, demonstrate inspections, etc. as outlined in the practical skills test sections. Each track requires particular skills to be demonstrated and are outlined for each track.
Failure to pass practical skills exam will require retest on failed sections or individual skill item. TAG (The Adventure Group) policy is that the participant can re-take either part of the test within 90 days for a reduced fee (fee is dependent upon space and programmatic restrictions). After 90 days the participant is no longer allowed to retest and must retest and successfully pass both tests. Retesting is not allowed to occur on the same day as the initial test was administered.

LEVEL:

TRACK:

Full Certification includes all the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate high and spotted activities on a variety of operating systems. This track of certification is transferable to other facilities or programs.

Spotted Activities Only includes all the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate spotted activities also known as low elements. This track of certification is transferable to other facilities or programs for spotted activities only.

High Activities Only includes all the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate high activities on a variety of operating systems. This track of certification is transferable to other facilities or programs.

System Specific (Alpine Tower II) includes all the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate an Alpine Tower II operating system. This track of certification is transferable to other facilities or programs. Verification from Alpine Towers International is required for transferability to identical Alpine Tower II structures/systems.

SPECIALTY EVENTS:

Giant Swing, Power Pole, Flying Squirrel, Zip Line, High Team Activities, Specialty Towers, etc.

MODIFICATIONS:

Determined on a case-by-case basis for individual certification applicant and certifying PVM based upon abilities, resources, and programmatic objectives.