Many years ago, diver certification agencies designed their basic/open-water/initial diver training programs to prepare the diver to:
1. Be able to act as a contributing member of the buddy team (incorporating training in surface and sub-surface rescue of a conscious and non-conscious victim); and
2. Be able to dive with their buddy, independently (without the aid of a Divemaster or Instructor).
Although some diver certification agencies haven't changed their fundamental philosophy, some have. The movement away from the "independent focus" leaves Divemasters and Instructors with the added duties of addressing a group of less capable divers in the water. Buddies are less likely to have the skill-sets necessary to help if the needs arises (rescue), thus placing even more responsibility on the diving leader. The diving leader often finds themselves as the only diver capable of performing an in-water rescue (which doesn't offer him/her much assurance if they find themselves needing assistance themselves). On the other hand, this allows people to spend less time completing the training and gets them exposed to diving at a faster rate; which may increase equipment sales.
Is this training philosophy a good one in your opinion, or should more time be spent developing independence in diver training? How does this philosophy affect you as a diver or does it?
1. Be able to act as a contributing member of the buddy team (incorporating training in surface and sub-surface rescue of a conscious and non-conscious victim); and
2. Be able to dive with their buddy, independently (without the aid of a Divemaster or Instructor).
Although some diver certification agencies haven't changed their fundamental philosophy, some have. The movement away from the "independent focus" leaves Divemasters and Instructors with the added duties of addressing a group of less capable divers in the water. Buddies are less likely to have the skill-sets necessary to help if the needs arises (rescue), thus placing even more responsibility on the diving leader. The diving leader often finds themselves as the only diver capable of performing an in-water rescue (which doesn't offer him/her much assurance if they find themselves needing assistance themselves). On the other hand, this allows people to spend less time completing the training and gets them exposed to diving at a faster rate; which may increase equipment sales.
Is this training philosophy a good one in your opinion, or should more time be spent developing independence in diver training? How does this philosophy affect you as a diver or does it?
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