How to Prepare for the Instructor Development Course

How to best prepare yourself and make the IDC a relaxed and enjoyable experience

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE COMPLETE BAN'S INSTRUCTOR KOH TAO GUIDE (PDF)

Preparation Course

A two-day course in which you will review all aspects of dive theory. We will cover the five topics you studied in your Divemaster Course: Physics, Physiology, Decompression Theory, Equipment and Skills & the Environment. In the swimming pool we will help you polish your skill demonstrations by running you through the PADI Skill Circuit. To refresh you memory we will also conduct a rescue workshop. During the IDC Preparation Course we will also give you an orientation to the Instructor Development Course.

Administrative Preparation

Fill out all the information required on the IDC application package and bring it on the first day of the IDC along with you all your past certification cards. The application requires information regarding all past courses. Contact your local PADI office directly if any information is needed.

Make sure to bring a valid credit card; PADI will not accept fees in cash. The application form requires an RSTC medical form to be completed. This can be done on Koh Tao or in your home country, but must be dated within the last 12 months. Bring your logbook with you, or a photocopy of the last page showing that you have a minimum of 100 logged dives.

Dive Master Theory & Skills

If you want to come to Koh Tao one or two weeks prior to your course you are most welcome to dive at Ban's to refresh your diving skills. We have 4-5 dives daily and two swimming pools that you are welcome to use at your leisure. Staff will be available if you have any questions or if you want to assist instructors during their courses (this is highly recommended). Just let us know which courses you would like to assist and we can pair you up with one of our many experienced instructors.

Review the Diving Knowledge Workbook thoroughly

Complete all available Divemaster exams (Physics, Physiology, Equipment, Skills and Environment and RDP). Use the Encyclopedia of Diving as a Reference. This is knowledge that you should already have. If you prepare this in advance, it will give you more time during the IDC to focus on the teaching aspect.

Skill Quality

Practice your skill demonstrations, focusing on the following skills: Mask removal and replacement, Scuba unit removal and replacement Weight belt removal and replacement, Fin pivot (oral and low pressure inflator hose) , Hovering, Buddy Breathing stationary and swimming Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA). Practice rescue skills, unconscious diver at the surface. If you are not near a swimming pool use the mirror.

Become familiar with the Instructor Manual

Make sure that the manual is up to date. If you are a renewed PADI Divemaster already, a digital Instructor Manual is available for free download on www.padimembers.com. If you are unable to get a hold of these materials don't worry, you can get the entire IDC crew pak when you arrive on the island.

And finally, participate in the IDC Preparation Course and/or Assistant Instructor Course available prior to each IDC. Finally just relax. If you have any questions let us know and we will try to help you as much as we can. Remember if you are able to come here earlier we can help you get started!!!

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