Okay, so you are thinking about learning to dive, but after some research, you may have realized there are many options and an overwhelming amount of information to take on board. Worry not! If you have wondered, “Is eLearning suitable for a new diver? We can say, YES! absolutely!
In this Blog, we walk you through the options for getting started with online learning – which you can now try for free!
Learning to dive is not the cheapest hobby (or sport) to embark on. Taking the PADI Open Water Course also requires a time commitment which can be tricky with busy lives and balancing schedules. But it’s so worthwhile – imagine the lifetime of underwater adventures and travel opportunities that await you once certified!
Take a look at this awesome video about why scuba diving is such an incredible experience – a world away from the pressures of everyday life on land:
The PADI Open Water Diver Course
The PADI Open Water Diver Course comprises three main elements: knowledge development, confined water skills practice, and open water dives.
Knowledge Development:
This is the studying component of the course in which you learn the theory of diving, the effects of pressure, how to communicate underwater, the role of scuba divers in marine and ocean conservation, oceanic eco-systems, tides, currents, diving skills, safety, equipment and a whole lot more. This might sound overwhelming, but it’s not. Because the theory is broken down into manageable-sized sessions which are accompanied by videos and visual aids, it’s easy and fun!
eLearning:
Knowledge Development doesn’t have to mean sitting in a classroom either. PADI’s eLearning option enables you to complete your studying from home, at your own pace, and at times that suit you. To learn about the 16 benefits of online learning, take a look at this article from a renowned university for health sciences.
You can now also ‘try before you buy’ with PADI’s free intro to the open water course online. You can get started immediately without needing to enter credit card details or obtain a discount code. Simply sign in or create an account to get started. You can then decide if you want to continue – we guarantee you will! It’s fun. It’s exciting – and it’s just the beginning.
What Next?
After you have completed your eLearning, you’ll receive a certificate of completion that you can print off or email to your chosen dive center. To locate a dive center near you or anywhere in the world, take a look at PADI travel. You can also use the Dive shop locator here.
Confined Water:
Confined water refers to a swimming pool or a body of water that offers conditions similar to a swimming pool. During your confined sessions, you will practice the skills that you learned about in your Knowledge Development. By practicing the skills in calm conditions and the confines of a pool, you will build confidence. Your PADI Instructor will explain the skills to you again, as well as give you a step-by-step demonstration before you try them for yourself. The pool sessions are great fun!
Open Water Dives
This is what it is all about – diving in open water! Depending on where you choose to take your course, you could be diving on coral reefs, meeting amazing marine life, seeing kelp forest, swimming over a wreck – endless possibilities. You’ll make 4 dives in the ocean as part of your PADI Open Water Diver Course, and although there are some skills involved, you’ll also enjoy plenty of time to swim around and explore with your instructor underwater.
Are You Ready to Get Started?
Your adventure can begin right now with just one click! And remember, learning is always more fun with friends and family, so why not sign up together?
