As long as I am making a PITA of myself -- Why does GUE list a "GUE Primer" class when there is none listed, or available, nor is there a book in the listing?
So, as I understand this, a DIR diver is one who follows the standards of GUE, which is touted to be a much higher standard than 'regular' agencies . . . Are they also a certification agency? Or are they like a "specialty" add-on? . . . and as TS&M stated, she can dive with like-trained people and always be certain you all hold to the same standard?
Close? Missed the target?
Sorry, UsryTregre, I must have posted as you added to your original post. I believe GUE was one of the first agencies to teach DIR style of diving but they are not the only one now. UTD also teaches DIR style of diving. GUE is a certification agency so you do get a c-card if you pass their class. I believe in the past GUE did not offer c-cards.
I have not traveled to other parts of the world since becoming certified by GUE (Aug 2009) but I do dive with a local group on SB, Dive NY, 99% in that group are not DIR trained but are good divers nonetheless.
GUE has a standard but I hesitate to say it is a higher standard cause until I've trained with all the agency I can't make that claim. Their standard is different from the other agencies, or at least the other two that I've trained with prior to GUE.
This is a good writeup on DIR http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/dir/44823-what-dir.html from Cave Diver.