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This is a bit more freeform than some other threads ... I'd like to key off of something Thalassamania posted recently, and invite thoughts from divers at all levels.
I think Mr. Egstrom makes an interesting point here ... in typical recreational classes we learn skills. In real-world diving, we learn how to apply those skills in a rather wide range of situations, environments and circumstances. Mr. Egstrom refers to "problem solving" ... and I think that's a great way to look at what constitutes advanced diving ... being able to apply skills outside of the context in which you learned them, for the purpose of solving a problem.
An example ... you are diving a wall and encounter an unexpected current that starts sweeping you down and away from the wall. As you kick harder to get back to the wall, CO2 begins building up in your body ... creating an "I can't get enough air" sensation. Meanwhile, your buddy ... who is working as hard as you are ... is slowly being forced farther and farther away by the current.
This is a reasonable ... although difficult ... type of problem that a diver may have to face at some advanced dive sites. Your training gave you all the tools you need to resolve it. There are several possible courses of action ... the advanced diver would be able to consider the options, and settle on one that would have the best potential for a positive outcome.
What would you do? How prepared do you feel you are to utilize the tools of your training to solve a problem underwater?
Do you feel that this is a reasonable criteria by which to consider yourself an "advanced scuba diver"?
If not ... how would you define it?
... Bob (Grateful Diver)
An insight on the question from Glen Egstrom in 1996:
Basic diver training courses have been redefined according to the specific training organizations' philosophies. They are generally in agreement with the Recreational Scuba Training Council (RSTC) guidelines but are not focused upon the complexities of the various skills. Modular approaches are beginning to have an impact on instruction but the emphasis on problem solving found in many earlier courses has been relegated to advanced experiences.
I think Mr. Egstrom makes an interesting point here ... in typical recreational classes we learn skills. In real-world diving, we learn how to apply those skills in a rather wide range of situations, environments and circumstances. Mr. Egstrom refers to "problem solving" ... and I think that's a great way to look at what constitutes advanced diving ... being able to apply skills outside of the context in which you learned them, for the purpose of solving a problem.
An example ... you are diving a wall and encounter an unexpected current that starts sweeping you down and away from the wall. As you kick harder to get back to the wall, CO2 begins building up in your body ... creating an "I can't get enough air" sensation. Meanwhile, your buddy ... who is working as hard as you are ... is slowly being forced farther and farther away by the current.
This is a reasonable ... although difficult ... type of problem that a diver may have to face at some advanced dive sites. Your training gave you all the tools you need to resolve it. There are several possible courses of action ... the advanced diver would be able to consider the options, and settle on one that would have the best potential for a positive outcome.
What would you do? How prepared do you feel you are to utilize the tools of your training to solve a problem underwater?
Do you feel that this is a reasonable criteria by which to consider yourself an "advanced scuba diver"?
If not ... how would you define it?
... Bob (Grateful Diver)