Why do you assume that corners are being cut?
I can teach my OW students some basic decompression theory and show/explain how dive computers work and how to use them. I now have a heck of a lot of time now to teach them about decompression theory, etc. than before.
Believe me, when teaching a class of eight students, inevitably one or two students would take up an inordinate amount of time trying to figure out the mechanics of using the table, not even getting to what it all meant. Now I can take that wasted time and actually teach them something. Of course this is just my observations from teaching.
Bill
Bill- Before I get into this reply, please note that I'm trying to have an honest discussion and not disrespect you in any way. Your above quote gets to the heart of the matter for me in two ways, and I did read it carefully when you originally posted it.
Two things about it bother me:
First, I highlighted the rest of that paragraph for you. I think this part has more to do with the reason PADI dropped tables than some are willing to admit. Believe me, I understand that teaching, and being surrounded by less intelligent people in general can both be frustrating.
It seems to me that there are other things that could be streamlined for a longer deco theory discussion. I also like the idea of some computer training "in addition" to the tables,as the two subjects compliment each other.
Secondly, deco theory is probably the most important thing to drill into a divers head besides "keep breathing". Are you seriously trying to convince me that dropping table training is:
a) leaving students with a better understanding of the practical ramifications of the theory, and how it applies to real world diving? The tables are the interface between the theory and what it actually means to divers...
b) not taking away the best tool you have (in the testing phase) of being 100% sure that students are "getting it"?
I'm just not seeing an upside. Based on curriculum, it seems like every other certification agency I've looked into so far is in agreement with me....