I feel that too many people shop on price alone and I feel that is the wrong approach. When shopping for a quality class, while price pays a part in it, then main thing is what are you going to get out of it. I feel that there are 3 main aspects of picking a Quality Class.
1. Take the time and interview your instructor (what type of experience do they have? What are their philosophies. Basically, what are they bringing to the table?).
2. What's involved in the class(academics, pool, dives, skills)?
3. Ratios (student to instructor) Open Water we guarantee a 2 to 1 ratio. As far as Con-Ed Classes, depending on the class and skill level of the divers in it, we will adjust the ratio's but will never exceed 4 to 1. Not to boast, but not too many instructors apply this philosophy. I believe that there is safety in numbers and especially here in the North East.
Here are 2 other things to consider when Training with a shop:
1. The Dive Shop. When dealing with a shop, do they have a lot of inventory? Do they have a variety when it comes to gear? If the answer to this is NO then that shop is probably not too active and with experience comes a good selection and knowledge of gear choices (choices of Canister lights or BC's or Regulators). Usually with choices comes a more laid back approach to sales. When people come into are shop we give them options for the product they are inquiring about and in the end they choose which route to go. Do they cover the spectrum of classes? If the answer to these questions is NO, then IMO that shows a lack of experience. Instructors who further their education and knowledge often go on to teach it and by not offering the spectrum of classes, shows a lack of continuing their education as the sport has evolved.
2. Travel. For shops that are by the ocean, do they offer an active "Local" diving schedule. Local diving schedule helps in showing experience. Do they offer regular Travel as well, Bonaire, Cozumel, Truk Lagoon etc.. This also will help add to experience.
If you take the time and interview a couple of Shops/Instructors you will start to see a variety of responses and in the end you will go with what makes sense to you. Usually, the more well rounded the Shop/Instructor typically the training will be better because of experience. Although the class maybe more money or the distance far, I think that is only a small part in getting a Quality Education. Not to toot our on horn, but our average customer passes 2 to 3 dive centers to come to us.