I see you've gotten some good information regarding the content of AOW.
As a new diver myself and currently progressing through AOW, I'll tell you how I felt about each course.
In OW, I learned all the basic technicalities of how nitrogen can affect my body, how to put on a wetsuit, BCD, tank, etc., how to descend, clear my mask, use my buddy's octopus, swim 200 yards to a buoy, and generally pick my *** at 25' on my knees holding a line while the other students learned the same things.
What I didn't learn in OW, is how to dive. But I recognize that you have to learn the basics first. Even just sitting around while the other students performed their tasks meant there was time for me to relax and get comfortable in a very controlled dive.
Now I've completed three AOW dives (covering four topics, deep, wreck, multi-level, and fish ID) and doing two more dives this weekend (night and navigation). Last night, I tested and became certified with Enriched Air.
And now I feel like I'm learning how to dive.
The following weekend I'm joining a group on a day boat. The group will include my instructors who have become friends to us. I'm going to take it easy, stay well within my limits and enjoy a little bottom time without my training wheels.
My opinion is that if you're a brand new diver with no other experience, OW doesn't turn you into a diver. You either need to gain experienced with other experienced divers who will guide along the way, or continue your education with AOW and beyond, or better yet....both.
John