Find the Best Place to Do Your Instructor Development Course (IDC)
Becoming a certified scuba diving instructor is an exciting journey for any diving enthusiast. However, before you can teach others to explore the wonders of the underwater world, you must complete an Instructor Development Course (IDC). Choosing the right IDC center is crucial in shaping your career as a diving instructor. In this blog post, we'll explore what candidates should look for when selecting an IDC, the key differences between IDCs, and the variations you might encounter among different dive shops.
What is an IDC?
An Instructor Development Course (IDC) is a 8-day comprehensive training program, including classroom sessions, confined water training, and open water teaching exercises. An IDC consists of 2 training parts: Assistant Instructor and Open Water Scuba Instructor. Successful completion of both parts leads to a 2-day Instructor Examination (IE). During this Examination, you show all your instructor skills to the PADI examiners.
These skills consist for example of: completion of dive theory and standards and procedures exams, a knowledge development teaching presentation, confined and open water teaching presentations, a short dive skills circuit and the a rescue exercise. After showing mastery at all components, you become a certified dive instructor!
8 Tips What to Look for in an IDC Resort or Center
If you've made the decision to pursue certification as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by the myriad of possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead. To simplify your search and ensure you make the best choice for your training, we offer eight essential tips on what to look for in an IDC (Instructor Development Course) Resort or Center.
Experienced Course Directors: The Course Director plays a pivotal role in your training. Look for IDC centers with experienced, knowledgeable, and supportive Course Directors who will guide you throughout the process.
Facilities and Equipment: Ensure that the IDC center has modern and well-maintained facilities, including classrooms, equipment for confined water training, and access to suitable dive sites for open water training.
Environmental Awareness: In today's world, environmental consciousness is vital. Choose an IDC center that emphasizes responsible diving practices, educates instructors on marine conservation and prioritizes sustainability.
Small Group Training: Personalized attention can greatly enhance your learning experience. IDCs with smaller class sizes often provide more one-on-one interaction with instructors and Course Directors.
Multilingual Support: If English is not your first language, consider IDC centers that offer training in multiple languages. This can make learning more accessible and comfortable.
Comprehensive Study Materials: Ensure that the IDC center provides quality study materials, including handouts, manuals, and online resources, to support your learning.
Online Learning Platform: In the digital age, some IDC centers offer online environments where you can connect with instructors and fellow candidates, access resources, and track your progress. This can be especially valuable for remote or self-paced learning.
Reputation and Reviews: Research the dive center's reputation and read reviews from former candidates. Positive testimonials and success stories can be indicative of a well-established and effective program.
An idea of what your Open Water Teaching classroom on Bonaire will look like.
Differences Between IDCs
IDCs can vary from one center to another. Navigating the world of Instructor Development Courses (IDCs) can be a bit like exploring the vast depths of the ocean—full of diverse and intriguing options. Let's delve deeper into the key distinctions you'll encounter on this adventure.
Duration: Some IDCs offer swift and intense programs. These are perfect if you're eager to dive headfirst into your training and obtain your certification quickly. On the other hand, some centers take a more leisurely approach, providing extended courses at a more relaxed pace. The choice of duration ultimately depends on your preferences, learning style and how quickly you want to kickstart your career as an instructor.
Location: The location of the IDC center you select can significantly impact your training experience. Do you dream of completing your instructor course in a tropical paradise, such as Bonaire? Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters? Or perhaps you thrive in the bustling atmosphere of of cold waters. The location sets the backdrop for your underwater education, so choose wisely.
Cost: You'll need to consider the financial aspect of your IDC. Costs can vary widely among different centers. Be sure to factor in the program fees, study materials, certification costs, and accommodation expenses when making your decision. Balancing your budget will ensure you embark on your journey with financial peace of mind.
Take the time
Selecting the right IDC center is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a certified scuba diving instructor. Take the time to research and consider your options, paying attention to factors like the experience of Course Directors, environmental awareness, small group training, multilingual support, study materials, online learning environments, reputation, and the unique offerings of each center.
In your quest to become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, remember that the choices you make along the way will shape your scuba journey. Whether you opt for a swift ascent or a more leisurely descent, a tropical paradise or a cold water environment, the cost-conscious approach or an investment in additional certifications, each decision adds depth to your scuba career.
Are you seeking some advice or are you interested in the details of our IDC? Feel free to get in touch. We are more than happy to guide you. Send us an e-mail.
