Rebreather Training ----> Certification

decoweenie

Instructors take Rebreather courses too...

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Nad

Well, I don't know. I still think that the practical and on the field experience of the instructor can help more than anything else, also with the theory.
The main problem is that procedures between instructors are not always perfect, so your solution could be good.
Probably we will find a middle way, including your idea.

Nad

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scubagrunt

100% on the money Phi, i have taken too many classes to count or add them up.
Now I hate to be all controversial and all but my question to Stuart is “won’t getting involved in e-training open you and RBW up to liability?” Please don’t take this as an attack, I am just wondering. Thanks
mel

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schford

We are just going to trial if some e-learning would be a good thing or not eg it would not replace any existing course but at this stage would just be supplemental....

With no contract to provide training between RBW and individuals, no qualification at the end of it or it being a replacment for existing training I think we should be fine.

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Crazyduck

I like the idea as a ‘learning tool.’
What if you could do a Java interface?


The member or person enters a name and password for a starting point and if/or they have to leave the session or get disconnected.
Then they could run through a series of chapters.
One chapter could be about the operating method of different styles of rebreathers.


Then product specific chapters on specific rebreather model.
At some point it would be nice to see a simulator and let the arm chair diver see a ‘normal’ dive and events through the dive.
You could cover some of the physics, gas laws and side by side benefits over OC.


Because of insurance and liability there would have to be clear statements of simulation is a learning tool only.

This could really shine in a few areas-
Examples of alarms in different systems
Bailout of standard rebreathers units
Packing of different scrubbers
Dynamic gas flow of certain scrubber models
Gas flow through variations of systems
Examples of units used and configured for certain environments

For marketing purposes you could reference instructors in divers area or ask if you could collect (on a volunteer basis) information for contact information.


Plus, it could be used as a reference database of interest in the units and differing areas of interest.


This could also be a GREAT way for Open Circuit divers to learn how to assist closed circuit divers. There is no course on this (unless something has creeped up) and that could be an easy explanation of the system for the untrained.

Just some thoughts.
Great idea Stuart!
Regards, Andrew

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decoweenie

You might be right on the legal issue, but how about the ethical issue ?

Having (partial) information usually is a double edge sword at times. It could help someone to supplement their knowledge as you have stated the intention of the program, but it could be used to save a buck for someone too tight to get the proper instructions.

I am not willing to go to the same length as Karl to debate this, but after personally having seen someone within seconds of dying just to save some $ from a Rebreather course (i.e. see the details in "Know your PO2" thread), I realize that this is not a perfect world that everything goes perfectly 100% of the time from the text on the Internet into the application of a real dive.

I certainly can't live with the thought...

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RonMicjan

Hey Stu, Im with Phi on this one, leave it to the manufacturers and agencys to do the training, there is tons of info here, as well as on other sites (mine included) but nothing step by step how to. this could get sticky. (of course, this is where karl will jump in and call me a w-hore)

and phi, thanks for sticking up for me on that other thread....not!

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Genesis

I wholeheartedly disagree.

More information from more sources is never bad.

I find it totally unconscionable that manufacturers don't publish things like user's manuals widely - and have them be thorough enough to actually figure out their unit (assuming you know generally how to dive a CCR) all on its own.

I'll be happy to send a full write-up on the K1 controller and/or keep it current as it progresses, along with packing instructions for the scrubber, etc.

I see no downside to that whatsoever, and am offended by those in the "instructor group" who want to keep that information restricted to those who pay them.

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http://www.diversunion.org/liability.htm - Fix the Diving Cert racket

RonMicjan

yup, right on time.... That took exactly 8 minutes...

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Deep Thought

I am all in favor a student gaining as much knowledge as possible prior to the course, and I can't fathom a reason why they should not use any means possible?

Operating a dive center I have encountered staff that feel on-line training is taking away from the dive centers/instructors one-on-one contact... this is rubbish. If a new technology exists, either you embrace it or stick your head in the sand and pretend it does not exist. I say change with the times and let students choose how they want to learn academics and the instructors can focus on the skills.

Theory is just that "theory" and until it is proven in the water with real world skills, you have a book smart student. I enjoy the challenge of a student who has honed their knowledge of a subject as it keeps one honest so to speak, keeps an instructor on their peak. Regardless of the level of knowledge I have numerous students who are book smart, but new to ccr's, and express the fact that things are different in the water than they appear in text.

I applaud anyone who has the time and effort to bring forth positive changes to this sport, wow! I mean really if I had the time that Stuart is suggesting...this cat must live more than 9 lives...to put on a stunning RBW party, maintain a first class forum, and now training online!!!



Deep Thought

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