So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and complete your PADI Open Water Diver course. Before you can explore the underwater world, your scuba journey must first begin on land – by learning some basic dive theory behind scuba skills, equipment, and safety.
This dive theory portion of your PADI Open Water Diver course is called Knowledge Development. It can be completed either in a physical classroom (at your chosen PADI Dive Center or Resort) or with digital learning (using PADI eLearning). We’ll take a look at both options to help you decide which is the best choice for you.
Dive theory: digital learning
Although digital learning calls for self-discipline, it also offers full flexibility in terms of when, where, and how you complete your PADI dive theory.
Anytime, anywhere:
With 24/7 access, you can fit your studies around your own schedule. Tackle topics in short bite-size chunks, or as longer sessions in one go. You can opt to learn from the comfort of your own home, a coffee shop, or even en route to your dream scuba destination!
Choose your platform:
PADI eLearning works on computers and mobile devices. So, sit back for an extended desktop lesson or use your smartphone on the go – the choice is yours! You can access your scuba diving theory online, or download course content to study offline using the PADI Training App (iOS/Android).
Save time on holiday:
If you’re planning to learn to dive on holiday, you can complete your knowledge development before you travel. You’ll then get to the underwater action much sooner after you arrive at your chosen PADI Dive Center or Resort – without spending precious holiday days inside a classroom.
Learn at your own pace:
With a rich mixture of content, videos, diagrams, and interactive quizzes, PADI eLearning adapts to suit your style and pace of learning. You’ll be able to study each chapter in your own time, repeating any sections needed to help refresh and embed your understanding of each topic – without worrying that you’re ‘holding up the class’.
Give the gift of scuba
PADI eLearning is also a great way to give someone the gift of scuba. Firstly, customise and purchase a gift pass for your chosen course. Then, print or email it to the lucky recipient. There’s no expiry date, so they’ll be free to start their course whenever and wherever it suits them!
Dive theory: classroom learning
Classroom sessions will need to take place at a specific time and place. But, for many scuba students, the benefit of this environment is the early social interaction it brings.
Shared experiences:
By working alongside fellow students on your scuba course, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a shared learning experience as well as meeting new friends. By the time you start your in-water lessons, you’ll have already built connections with your new dive buddies.
The personal touch:
Anecdotes and personal stories shared by your PADI Instructor can help to bring lessons to life in a truly unique way, and you’ll likely find that discussions and questions asked by other students bring new and interesting perspectives to each topic.
Get instant feedback:
Although you won’t necessarily be able to repeat each topic several times, one advantage of classroom learning is that your PADI Professional – your source of diving expertise – is available right there and then to answer any specific questions you have, and can guide you through trickier topics and concepts in more detail.
Switch off the screen:
Nowadays, emails and social media are taking up more and more of our lives. Choosing to learn in a real classroom with real people will provide a welcome break for those wanting to switch off from the virtual world.
Digital learning vs. classroom learning
We can’t say categorically which is the best option for your PADI scuba diving theory. The choice between digital and classroom is a personal one that depends on your own circumstances and style of learning. However, in general:
Choose digital learning if you…
- Are self disciplined to complete your lessons
- Enjoy studying at your own pace
- Don’t want to attend sessions at specific times or locations
- Want to complete essential dive theory before you travel
- Prefer to learn using interactive technology
- Are looking for a unique scuba gift for someone else
Choose classroom learning if you…
- Need a bit of a nudge to start studying
- Are happy to attend at a set time and place
- Enjoy discussions and learning about other people
- Like to have instant feedback to your questions
- Want to meet your buddies before your practical lessons
- Are looking to switch off from technology for a while
Start your dive theory today
Locate a PADI Dive Center or Resort to find out more about courses and availability, or sign up for PADI Open Water Diver eLearning to start your dive theory online today.
Related Reading:
8 Reasons to Take an Online Scuba Class
Top 5 Specialty Courses Now Available on eLearning
Learn a New Diving Course From Home
Tips and Tricks For A Smoother PADI Open Water Diver Course
Learn to Dive – 3 Ways to Get Started Scuba Diving
