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Below are some of the frequently asked Questions that our Course Director answers.
How long have you been a CD or a rough count of IDC students?
I have been a CD since 2001 and I have completed approximately 21 IDC's, something like 65 students
What % of your graduates pass IE the first time? Of those who may have failed how many passed on a second try?
I have only ever had one failure, he passed second time around.
On the philosophy page you say that the Cortez IDC is superior to other
cheaper IDC programs, what exactly makes your program better?
The main reasons is as follows:
1. I believe anyone can become an Instructor, it all takes is training, dedication and the right attitude.
2. To be a GREAT instructor is all about attitude. Anyone can read the requirements straight from the manual and pass the Evaluations, but injecting your enthusiasm and personality is what will make you stand out.
3. Many Course Directors will give you all the presentations and skills on pre-planned sheets.....how are you meant to learn if they are already completed?
4. We provide you with other documents, that PADI have seen and wish to introduce into the curriculum, but can't not yet. They are business concepts and training concepts (the cooperation of a number of Course Directors).
5. I will not let you take the IE, if I think you are going to have problems
Where will we dive during the IDC?
The dives are close to the Dive Center, 20 mins by boat and you will see other students and sand...!! No hammerheads, maybe some sea lions
What's so special about your IDC program?
One of the most important aspects of our course is the emphasis on real world training. We believe that almost any Course Director can give you enough knowledge to pass the IE if that is your only goal. However, your goal should be to understand the PADI system to the point where you can be a successful employee or owner diving professional.
Must I do the exams in English?
No, PADI has written exams in all of the major languages. Also, it is possible to do your oral teaching presentations in your native tongue if you so desire.
Do we do the IE in Mexico?
PADI have at least two IE a year in Baja, but once you have completed your IDC you can attend any IE if you can't do the one here.
When can I begin teaching
As soon as the paperwork from your IE has been processed by PADI. Depending on where your permanent address is, this could take between two and eight weeks.
Is it possible to 'fail' the IDC program?
No, it's is impossible to fail the IDC - unless you just don't show up - as the IDC is a course, not an exam. Our IDC stresses development. As a result, you can relax while learning, knowing that mistakes are part of the process. Although there are performance requirements for successfully completing the course, there are no time limitations, so you may continue to progress under your course director's guidance. The goal is to create a low stress environment in which you can learn to function as a PADI Instructor. This makes the IDC challenging, yet an enjoyable learning experience. The final evaluation of your knowledge and skills come later during the PADI Instructor Examinations.
Can I get a job in Mexico?
Yes, it is possible to work in this country at one of the many resorts, including here in La Paz. We will do our best to help you find a job here if you so choose, and we have been able to place most of our candidates.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS IN THE IDC PROCESS?
There are two distinct components to the IDC process - the Assistant Instructor (AI) course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) course. The AI course is a minimum of 4 days and the OWSI course is a minimum of 4 days. To become a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, you must successfully complete an IE (Instructor Examination).
WHAT IS AN IE AND WHEN AND WHERE IS IT HELD?
An IE is a two-day program conducted by PADI Instructor Examiners. You will be asked to demonstrate your teaching abilities, rescue abilities and understanding of the PADI System and dive theory. It is pass-fail. The IE takes place on the last two days of the program.
WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY?
A typical day will be divided between academic presentations, confined and open water sessions, skills development, and rescue practice.
WHAT ARE THE PREREQUISITES FOR THE IDC AND AI COURSE?
1. Be certified as a PADI Divemaster or hold a leadership level certification with another recreational diver training organization, leadership level with another organization can be; BSAC (Club instructor or higher), CMAS (two or three star0, FAUI, IDEA, LA County, MDEA, NAUI, PDIC, SSI, SAA (INSTR. Grade 2 or higher) or YMCA
2. Be at least 18 years old.
3. Be fit for diving and submit a Medical Statement for a diving medical examination conducted within the past 12 months.
4. Be a certified diver for 6 months and have completed and logged 60 dives and have documentation of experience in deep, night, and navigation diving.
5. Proof of CPR and first aid training within the last 24 months.
6. Submit documentation of any equivalent certification for entry-level, advanced, rescue and leadership-level issued by another recreational diving agency.
7. If not a PADI Divemaster, successfully complete the PADI Divemaster course rescue skills assessment.
WHAT ARE THE PREREQUISITES FOR THE OWSI PROGRAM?
1. Be certified as a PADI Assistant Instructor or as a current instructor member in good standing with another recreational diver training organization.
2. Be at least 18 years old.
3. Be fit for diving and submit a diving Medical Statement.
4. Have been a certified diver for 6 months and have 60 logged dives with experience in night, deep and navigation.
5. Submit proof of CPR and first aid training within the last 24 months.
6. Submit documentation of any equivalent certification for any level that is not PADI.
WHAT TRAINING MATERIALS ARE REQUIRED?
PADI IDC Crew Pak $499.00 plus shipping
Frequently Asked Questions
