As diving instructors we are frequently confronted with questions related to dive computers. Which computer should I buy? How come that my computer and the one from my buddy give different dive times/ascent speeds/time before flying/etc.? These questions are not always easy to answer. Decompression theory and the way the related mathematics are integrated in the dive computer software are for many sort of “hocus-pocus”. This course is designed to allow you to give your students insight in the theory behind the functioning of dive computers.
If questions are asked, it is our job as dive instructors to provide the answers. For complex subjects we do that in the form of a course or a seminar. This course allows you to expand the services you can offer – it provides answers to questions that are already on the mind of your clients.
The course starts with the historical perspective – from dive tables, via the first dive computers up to the current situation. From there on, the course relates the different aspects of decompression theory and the way these aspects are (or are not) translated into the mathematical models that result in the data on the dive computer display. Some basic information on the subject is included in Divemaster courses, but this specialty strives to develop a more comprehensive understanding of decompression theory and dive computers. After all – every diver dives with a computer, so they might just as well know what the machine is exactly doing.
Training goes far beyond the information presented in the course for participating divers. For the success of this program it is essential that instructors have a thorough understanding of decompression theory.
The training program is modular. You enter the first course page after the application process is completed. The page gives information following the course outline and gives responses to questions the students may have. Links to internet sources give background information. After studying the page you complete the module by answering questions on the information you covered on that page. Correct answers then give you access to the next page, which follows the same procedure.
Arriving at the last page means that you passed the course and are ready to teach the program to recreational divers. By post you will receive a certificate of completion, a CD-Rom with the necessary tools to teach the course and the form to be sent to PADI for processing of your specialty instructor rating. Instructors from other organization need to coordinate themselves with their training organization to see if and how a credential can be awarded.
The course fee for this program is 129 Euro. This includes the online training, a CD-ROM with PowerPoint presentation and a certificate of completion. The PADI fee (in Europe around 30 Euro) is not included.
Instructors who completed the training can return to the course pages as long as this page exists. This way you always have the tools needed to find answers to questions and to prepare yourself if it has been a while since you last thought the course.
