So now hear another view..
The online course can work for you.
It really is no different than completing a course the traditional way.
Example:Traditional method: you go to a dive center purchase a crewpack(learing materals) go home watch a video,read a book,complete you knowledge reviews.Now you show up for class,instructor gives a presentation ,go over knowledge reviews,short 10 question quiz,then reviews quiz.
Example with online: You go on line ,pay for access and watch same video,read same material,do the same knowledge reviews(print them out) as in the crew pack,but only on computer instead of paper book.You have access to learning materials for a set time after course is completed for review at your leisure.
Now you go to class,instructor does a presentation ,go over knowledge reviews,same 10 question quiz,reviews quiz..All confined pool work stays the same..All ow training dives stay the same.
With either option still have final exam-50 question multiple choice format .
The online option is just that,an option ..it affords flexibility to people who may be short on time to go to facility and purchase learning materials and or those who feel more at ease using computer instead of traditional books.Still have to purchase a log book and RDP tables at facility.
It cost a little bit more this way online,but for some people its the convience that they realise that they are paying for.