I just saw a couple new posts to an old thread about diving skills. The last two posts were discussing how useless AOW is. I know this has gone 'round and 'round but since new divers read this all the time I feel compelled to comment once again.
AOW can be a very good course. I choose to do this right after OW certification and am very glad I did (I know many of you disagree with the timing). Doing a search and recovery dive immediately after (with appropiate SIT) doing a bouyancy dive and a navigation dive really helped reinforce both skills. Skills once learned, I practiced (and continue to practice) until I reached some level of proficiency. Also, I learned how to properly shoot a lift bag. Another skill I practiced and continue to practice. On the deep dive, I learned some gas management and dive planning skills. All skills I use or may need to use on almost every dive. (not to mention the numerous threads here on SB lamanting the lack of these skills in so many divers).
The night dive was just fun.
In New Jersey, you need AOW certification to go out on the charters. If you're going to get the certification, seek out an instructor that will make it worth your while - it doesn't have to be a waste of time - you can learn very useful diving skills.
Peace,
JR
AOW can be a very good course. I choose to do this right after OW certification and am very glad I did (I know many of you disagree with the timing). Doing a search and recovery dive immediately after (with appropiate SIT) doing a bouyancy dive and a navigation dive really helped reinforce both skills. Skills once learned, I practiced (and continue to practice) until I reached some level of proficiency. Also, I learned how to properly shoot a lift bag. Another skill I practiced and continue to practice. On the deep dive, I learned some gas management and dive planning skills. All skills I use or may need to use on almost every dive. (not to mention the numerous threads here on SB lamanting the lack of these skills in so many divers).
The night dive was just fun.
In New Jersey, you need AOW certification to go out on the charters. If you're going to get the certification, seek out an instructor that will make it worth your while - it doesn't have to be a waste of time - you can learn very useful diving skills.
Peace,
JR
:furious:
