Low Ropes is a series of structured physical activities designed to facilitate the exploration of communication, collaboration, risk-taking, problem solving, coaching and leadership.
Activities are low risk since the elements or activities are low to the ground.
A Transfer of Learning…
The ultimate goal of the Low Ropes and Teambuilding programs is to assist participants in establishing a connection between what they have accomplished in the activities and their own potential at work, school or home.
Group reflection is built into the delivery of each low rope element.
Teambuilding activities are tasks, games and challenges that encourage group and individual communication, collaboration, problem solving, coaching and leadership. Teambuilding includes a variety of task-oriented activities that can be used to explore individual and group dynamics.
After each activity the group is debriefed and asked to reflect on their experience.
Low Ropes elements are specific element-orientated physical teambuilding activities. During a teambuilding program without elements, participants are primarily challenged intellectually to accomplish a shared goal while observing individual and group behavior.
Low Ropes activities include a Spider’s Web. TP Shuffle, Rock Wall Traverse and Trust Fall. Teambuilding activities have included Silent Opera, Helium Stick, Radioactive, Tarp, Robot, Traffic Jam, Tanagrams and much, much more.
Although the Low Ropes Course is fixed, activities are always being added to the teambuilding menu and can be easily adapted to target specific learning outcomes.
Currently the Paradise Valley Community College Low Ropes and Teambuilding Programs are available only to the PVCC community including classes, departments, divisions, student clubs and student organizations.
All activities in the Low Ropes and Teambuilding Programs are challenge-by-choice allowing individuals to determine the degree to which they can participate based on their physical abilities and goals.
Facilitators are trained PVCC staff and student leaders who operate out of the Paradise Valley Community College Student Life Center. They are trained in safety precautions as well as the special techniques, mediation and communication skills required for experiential learning formats.
On average most sessions can be completed in 1 to 1 ½ hours. Special arrangements for shorter or longer sessions can be made on an as needed basis with program coordinators.
Yes! With prior arrangement with Low Ropes/Teambuilding coordinators activities can be pre-selected to maximize participation or customized to meet specific course/team learning objectives and outcomes.
How do I get started with arranging a Low Ropes or Teambuilding Session for my class, division, department or organization?
Complete the on-line program request form. Be sure to include dates, times and special needs of your group.
Participants should wear relaxed clothing that they don’t mind getting a little dirty. Long pants are best, but not required. CLOSED TOED TENNIS or OUTDOOR SHOES are a MUST! The program provides all other required equipment, materials and props.
Yes! All individuals must complete a General Assumption of Risk Form that is provided on this web site or in the Student Life Center in KSC135. We also ask that participants sign a Photo Release Form, also available on-line or in the Student Life Center, however this is not required.
Participants under the age of 18 must have their parent or guardian sign off on all paperwork.
We believe that instructors who get involved in the facilitation and debriefing process are critical to the success of the program. It is important for you to note what outcomes and goals you have for the session. For example, if your class is currently working on a Chapter about Problem Solving we can help shape the activities and debriefing to your lesson objectives. Please note these goals and objectives during the booking process. Also, we rely on you to assist with classroom management. Instructors are not permitted to drop their class off, you must be a present and active part of the process. We find that the students take their cues from you.
Paradise Valley Community College | 18401 N. 32nd Street | Phoenix, AZ 85032 | 602.787.6500