Marine Conservation And Research Certification

[ScubabunnyCR]

Here in Costa Rica we have been working on introducing more of a conservation and eco aspect to our divemaster and instructor programs. One of the things we have just put into action is our new Marine conservation and research qualification. We now offer this as a specialty course and as instructor training so if you are a PADI instructor, you can teach it yourself too. The course covers surveying and research techniques underwater as well as basic biology of reefs, fish and marine life, survey and report writing as well. We look at it as a good addition for someone either looking at entering the marine biology, conservation field or someone looking to teach in that area. By covering all of the different survey techniques used for research someone could either put together their own studies, or assist with other. Also from the teaching aspect it could be used to teach an individual or group to conduct any type of marine survey.
Anyway, just wanted to spread our news as we are super excited about moving forwards with this and our ECO programs here and feedback is always welcome!

 

[tursiops]

Is the Instructor Guide for the new specialty available? I'd love to look at it.

 

[ScubaJill]

Do you have a link to the course description?

 

[drbill]

Great news. As a marine biologist, I think it is very important for those who teach SCUBA to have a good understanding of the marine environment they teach in. I've seen some horrible examples of interactions with marine life by instructors (as well as some very knowledgeable instructors).

 

[ScubabunnyCR]

Here is a link to the course description from our webpage. It outlines the course modules and the skills that are covered in the open water section. I completely agree drbill, was one of the main reasons we developed it.