What to Expect When Taking the PADI IDC Course
Matthew Lising Jul 08, 2024
Taking the PADI IDC provides you with in-depth knowledge of the instructor development process and prepares you to shape the next generation of PADI Professionals. Here's what you should expect when you decide to enroll in the PADI IDC at Ocean Enterprises.
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Who Can Enroll?
A PADI Divemaster who has been a certified diver for at least six months may enroll in the PADI IDC. Additionally, you need:
- At least 60 logged dives (100 dives are required to attend the Instructor Examination - IE).
- Emergency First Response Primary and Secondary Care (CPR and First Aid) training within the past 24 months.
- A medical statement signed by a physician within the last 12 months.
- You also need to be an Emergency First Response Instructor, but you can earn this rating during your instructor training.
Course Structure
The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is made up of two parts - the Assistant Instructor (AI) course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program. Most dive professionals complete the entire IDC and go on to attend an Instructor Examination (IE), which is the final step to earn a PADI Instructor certification.
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Assistant Instructor (AI) Course: Successfully completing the AI course results in a PADI Assistant Instructor qualification. When an AI is ready to progress, attending an OWSI program allows entry into an IE to earn a full PADI Instructor rating.
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Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) Program: Dive professionals who hold an instructor rating with another diver training organization may be eligible to enroll directly in the OWSI program. This recognizes prior instructor training and provides a path to becoming a PADI Instructor.
Academic and Practical Requirements
Over a minimum of five days, but usually more like seven, the IDC teaches you to conduct all PADI core courses. You'll be able to organize and present information, conduct skill development sessions, and control open-water dives. Key topics include:
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PADI Standards and Procedures for Courses You Can Teach with In-Water Workshops: Understand the comprehensive standards and procedures involved in training new divers.
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Learning, Instruction, and the PADI System: Gain insights into effective teaching methods and how to utilize the PADI system of diver education.
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Risk Management and Diver Safety: Learn about risk management, diver safety, and the legal aspects of teaching diving.
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The Business of Diving and Your Role as an Instructor: Understand the business side of diving and how to succeed as a professional instructor.
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Marketing Diving and Sales Counseling: Develop skills in marketing diving courses and equipment, and learn how to counsel potential students and divers effectively.
Career Benefits
Becoming a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor opens up numerous career opportunities within the dive industry. As a certified instructor, you can:
- Teach a variety of PADI courses, from Open Water Diver to Divemaster.
- Work at dive centers, resorts, and liveaboards around the world.
- Share your passion for diving and the underwater environment with others.
- Enjoy a rewarding and exciting career with plenty of opportunities for growth and specialization.
Ocean Enterprises offers the IDC where you not only advance in your diving career but also enhances your knowledge and teaching skills. If you're an divemaster qualified to take the next step, the IDC is an excellent opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.
Join us for PADI Pro Night on August 2nd, where you can learn about the benefits of becoming a PADI-certified diver and instructor, gain exclusive insights from expert instructors, and take advantage of special offers on courses and dive gear. Spaces are limited so we recommend registering early to save yourself a spot!
