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That is not true. The first agency to push computers this way was SDI, and it was more than 10 years ago. PADI came up with its computer version of the course not too long after that. I believe SSSI followed that.Also I've heard that PADI materials are somewhat outdated, while SSI uses more modern approach to teaching (e.g. were the first agency to force using computers instead of tables around ten years ago). Is that true?
That is not true, either, although it is possible to scam the system if you are a pathological liar.Also I was told that once you become a PADI MSDT (certified 25 open water students) you can start issuing any certifications without even passing that particular course yourself - e.g. you can become a sidemount instructor just by paying the fee to PADI while having zero dives in that configuration.
this seems interesting.SSI allows flexibility for moving skills around, while PADI requires (though I know many who ignore the requirement) that all skills are completed in the required confined/open water dive before moving onto the new set.
This is my perception too, I plan to work in Europe in the future and I feel that SSI going to be prevalent there.It appears (my perception could be wrong) that their marketshare is shrinking and SSI's is growing, but the gap is still huge. I've seen a dramatic change in 3 years in Greece (not exactly a dive destination, but still). I think a lot of that is driven by agency fees.