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One question for those instructors on here. One of the things that shook me was him refusing my hand signals. Was that an appropriate response? His stance is that he wanted us to solve our problems underwater, which I completely understand is what will be needed in actual diving but this was day 1, hour 3 in the pool (and I've never had a mask nor snorkel on). He also did not give me any tips/methods to go home and work through it which I found a bit odd. He was encouraging when I left saying that it happens all the time and not to beat myself up over it.
It's your right to refuse any request to perform any skill for any reason you see fit. I always make this clear on the first night and it seems to alleviate some tension. A students potential for success is often determined on the first night. The progression should include some degree of comfort as a check point prior to moving to the next skill.
When I encounter a student with issues, I may work with them or I may give them something to work on until they achieve a degree of comfort which will allow them to continue.
OW class is a lot to digest. You are bombarded with new information and for some, a new environment. Comfort in the new environment is crucial to learning new skills and can't be rushed. "Hurry up and get comfortable" isn't much help.
Congrats on starting OW.