Getting your PADI Open Water Diver Certification unlocks the doors to the underwater world. If you’re researching your options about learning to scuba dive, you may have noticed that the PADI Open Water Diver Course consists of 3 main phases:
- Knowledge Development
- Confined Water Dives
- Open Water Dives
We’re here to talk about the Knowledge Development section. In this section, you will learn the principles and concepts. Plus the terms necessary to become a diver. Additionally, you’ll also cover safety concepts in preparation for your confined and open water dives. It’s important to learn how to manage risk and how to avoid hazards before you get in the water.
Above all, there is a fair amount of material that you will need to master. Therefore, it’s important that you choose a convenient platform to make the most of this learning experience.
Since everyone processes information differently, PADI provides three ways to complete the Knowledge Development portion of the course. Let’s talk a little about these options.
Option 1: PADI Open Water Diver eLearning Offline
The materials you need to learn to dive are at your fingertips, on your tablet.
The offline program is a great option if you have an Apple or Android tablet. We like this method because it conveniently combines the “Open Water Diver Manual” and videos into one tablet-based learning tool. Take it with you when you travel, and find an Internet connection when it’s time to submit the answers to your quizzes and exam.
As you progress through the material, you’ll be presented with interactive presentations, including videos, audio, graphics, and text. Short quizzes gauge your progress and review and correct anything you might miss. Absorb the material at your own pace.
Highlights of offline learning:
- You can do this from quite literally anywhere, a perfect option for travellers!
- Everything is on your device, so you don’t need any bulky books.
- You can go back and forth between sections, revising the areas you need, as many times as you need to!
Option 2: PADI Open Water Diver eLearning Online
This is a browser-based online course. Your scuba class curriculum is presented interactively on your desktop computer.
PADI eLearning Online allows you to begin your dive education at your convenience, anywhere you have an Internet connection. If you have a busy schedule or just prefer the convenience of online study, eLearning is a good choice.
Highlights of online learning:
- You can submit answers and get your exam results immediately.
- Perfect for those who love online learning.
- Go at your own pace.
- There is no time limit, you can take as long as you need before you feel ready for the underwater sections.
Option 3: PADI Open Water Diver Manual and Video
Instructor lead learning at a dive centre.
If you choose this scenario, you’ll go to a PADI dive shop to purchase a “crew pack,” which contains a book and a DVD. This is classroom-based, instructor-led learning. To get started, find your local dive shop here and schedule your class.
Highlights of manual-based learning:
- Some find visual learning easier than just reading.
- You can ask your instructor questions without delay.
- Your instructor will help keep you on track.
Now that you know about the three choices for the Knowledge Development portion of your Open Water Diver course, you can choose which option best fits your schedule and technology preference. Getting your PADI certification is a rewarding achievement. In addition to this, you’ll develop a new appreciation for the underwater havens, and develop your skillset for life!
What’s the Next Step?
After you’ve completed the Knowledge Development, you’re ready to visit a PADI Dive Center or Resort to complete your in-water training. Following this, you’ll do five confined water dives and four open water training dives. The result? You’ll have completed the Open Water Diver course!
Wether you’re a digital nomad looking to learn on the go, or planning your next adventure holiday, the PADI Travel team are on hand 24/7 to help you book your next adventure. The possibilities are endless.
Are you ready to dive into your next adventure?
