Why does SDI insist on teaching only Dive Computers?

[maged_mmh]

Uhhhh.... Why don't they teach algorithms by table anymore?

coz along came vector analysis, calculus limits calculations, and wavelet transform

 

[KJackson60]

I think SDI has just decided that computers have become so inexpensive and widely available that they make the most sense for recreational divers. I remember taking PADI AOW and being the only student in the class who really understood the tables when I walked in.

Well, I suppose that may be so. Except, I don't know anyone personally that is using a computer. And at $400.00 I don't consider that cheep, especially since I am just starting out and think an exposure suit, BCD, regs, etc have a higher priority than a computer. I also get what your saying about people REALLY understanding the tables. A stronger emphasize by the Certification Agencies would probably help there, but that is the subject for a different post!

Uhhhh.... Why don't they teach algorithms by table anymore?

 

[KJackson60]

Sorry about the double post!

 

[KJackson60]

Some folks want to learn the tables and they make those courses available for them.

Some folks just want to use nitrox on their vacation and don't care about the math- For them you just teach them how to use and follow their computer properly.

Seems like a decent solution for everyone.[/QUOTE

Good point! Just wish my LDS was a little more accommodating to MY needs. At least on this point. Ah well, guess I'll do compressed air for awhile longer.

 

[oly5050user]

Well, I suppose that may be so. Except, I don't know anyone personally that is using a computer. And at $400.00 I don't consider that cheep, especially since I am just starting out and think an exposure suit, BCD, regs, etc have a higher priority than a computer. I also get what your saying about people REALLY understanding the tables. A stronger emphasize by the Certification Agencies would probably help there, but that is the subject for a different post!

Uhhhh.... Why don't they teach algorithms by table anymore?

Welcome to world of diving..you should know how tables work so that you have an understanding what your computer is doing for you.
Here is a reason why computers can be considered "cheap"..
You need a watch to dive to keep track of bottom time-surface interval time-and to navigate with..cost of a halfway decent watch (SEIKO as an example) $200.Can it be done for less?Sure but how long will it last?
You need a way to keep track of depth-depth gauge alone $100.-spg depth combo $190...
A computer can pay for itself in additional time it gives you on a dive(multi-level capability) that pays for itself the first week you own it on a dive vacation doing 3-4-5 dive a day.We have a special with Scubapro running right now-buy a galileo computer-yeah I know ,its the most expensive they have,and a bcd with an air 2 on it and you get a FREE top of the line regulator(value of $689.)Look for deals on other vendors also.Computer does not have to cost $400--could be $50.-$100.-$150. less than that if you deal with the lds on a package deal.

 

[udtfire]

as an SDI IT let me clear up some common misconception we require a comp for basic class because most divers use a computer and we use them to teach understanding of dive physics just as we use the tables for the same reason. the instructor has the option to teach tables if they or you wish. but at the basic openwater level you must use a computer in class. the instructors I know provide comp for the basic class. if you are diving euough to take a nitrox class the investment in that class would be wasted without a computer a computer pays for itself in bottom time. basic comp start at around 200 and your enjoyment and safety is worth that . stay safe and hope to see you in the water.

 

[Dive Junky]

Hey everyone. I was at my LDS the other day and noticed a sign promoting their latest special which was a Nitrox Course through SDI. I have been thinking about getting Nitrox Certified so I thought this was a perfect opportunity. When I asked about the class I found out it was only taught using Dive Computers, no tables.:shocked2: Since I don't own a computer and won't own one for quite sometime I asked them if there was a provision for learning it with tables. They said no. Is this correct? If so why does SDI not want to teach tables? Seems to me they are limiting themselves in the market place.

SDI has developed a simple, yet safe and educational system for all of their classes. It took a little getting used to for me since I began as a NAUI instructor. I teach now for NAUI, SDI, and TDI. The one thing that drew you to the original SDI nitrox class was the cost. The class of course is not nearly as indepth as TDI or NAUI nitrox classes. Quite simply, 'You get what you pay for'.

 

[texdiveguy]

Standard everyday recreational diving is so much more enhanced with the use of a quality dive computer now days. It is important I believe also to have a solid understanding behind the use of dive tables, but lets face it most recreational divers are using some form of computer in their diving.

 

[KJackson60]

Welcome to world of diving..you should know how tables work so that you have an understanding what your computer is doing for you.
Here is a reason why computers can be considered "cheap"..
You need a watch to dive to keep track of bottom time-surface interval time-and to navigate with..cost of a halfway decent watch (SEIKO as an example) $200.Can it be done for less?Sure but how long will it last?
You need a way to keep track of depth-depth gauge alone $100.-spg depth combo $190...
A computer can pay for itself in additional time it gives you on a dive(multi-level capability) that pays for itself the first week you own it on a dive vacation doing 3-4-5 dive a day.We have a special with Scubapro running right now-buy a galileo computer-yeah I know ,its the most expensive they have,and a bcd with an air 2 on it and you get a FREE top of the line regulator(value of $689.)Look for deals on other vendors also.Computer does not have to cost $400--could be $50.-$100.-$150. less than that if you deal with the lds on a package deal.

I absolutly agree with your first statement about understanding how tables work so you know what the computer is doing. I also understand your point about buying equipment in packages to get a better deal. I will definitely be doing that when I am in a financial position to do so. Right now though I am just wanting to get more experience and further my knowledge base by diving and picking up training as it is available and I can afford it. So at this point in my dive life if I have $2-300.00 I am using it for diving (with rental equipment and the gear I own) and a class or two, funds permitting.

I have received some really great replies to this question. I would like to thank all of you for your interest.

 

[ppo2_diver]

Hey everyone. I was at my LDS the other day and noticed a sign promoting their latest special which was a Nitrox Course through SDI. I have been thinking about getting Nitrox Certified so I thought this was a perfect opportunity. When I asked about the class I found out it was only taught using Dive Computers, no tables.:shocked2: Since I don't own a computer and won't own one for quite sometime I asked them if there was a provision for learning it with tables. They said no. Is this correct? If so why does SDI not want to teach tables? Seems to me they are limiting themselves in the market place.

It probably is the Computer Nitrox course that is offered by SDI. TDI's Nitrox course is taught with tables. SDI does allow instructors to include tables with their classes, so it is up to the instructor if he/she wants to add them or not.

I'm surprised that they wouldn't be flexible enough to teach you tables and rent you a computer for the class. If tables is something you want to learn, then look around for another shop/instructor.