The Professional Scuba Association International (PSAI) Instructor Qualification Courses (IQC) offer a structured pathway for divers who aspire to become PSAI Instructors who already have instructor qualifications from another agency such as PADI or SSI. These courses are tailored to develop and assess the instructional competencies of candidates, enabling them to teach at various diver levels.
Key Details
- Course Structure: The PSAI Instructor Qualification Course (IQC) is a rigorous program designed to evaluate and certify instructors at different diving levels. The duration varies, with longer durations for more advanced levels. Each course level is taught separately to maintain focus and depth.
- Curriculum Requirements: The IQC focuses on evaluating the candidate’s ability to convey subject matter appropriate to the desired level effectively. It includes reviewing the fundamentals of instruction but does not completely revisit all material from the diver level course.
- Course Completion Steps: The course includes paperwork and administrative review, timed written examinations (both diver and instructor levels), equipment configuration and setup evaluation, open water dives for skill and instructional evaluation, academic lesson presentations, and final evaluations.
Course Content
- Classroom Work: Candidates must complete a minimum of two lecture presentations, along with corresponding written examinations. This typically requires 3 to 4 hours and tests both fundamental and advanced understanding of diving concepts.
- Confined Water Demonstrations: Specific demonstrations in confined water settings are required, the duration of which varies but is sufficient for a complete evaluation of instructional competence.
- Open Water Demonstrations: Two open water dives are mandatory, including a normal dive to assess the candidate’s diving competence and a second dive where the candidate functions as the instructor, providing a briefing for a dive relevant to the level pursued.
Prerequisites
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
- Certification Requirements: Candidates must already be certified as instructors at the level listed in the specific IQC’s prerequisites.
- Completion of the diver level course at the level sought in the IQC is mandatory.
- Experience Requirements: Candidates must possess the minimum diving and instructional experience required for the specific IQC.
- Equipment for Technical Levels: For Technical Level IQCs, candidates must have at least one functional oxygen analyser for measuring diving gas cylinders. All equipment used should be appropriately cleaned, labelled, and rigged as required for the level of certification sought.
- Open Circuit SCUBA: Except for Rebreather IQCs and side-mount courses, the in-water portions of all IQCs are conducted using Open Circuit SCUBA.
These comprehensive prerequisites and course contents ensure that PSAI IQC candidates are well-prepared and qualified to uphold the high standards of PSAI Professional Educators in various diving environments and situations.
Location
Courses are conducted throughout the year at various locations, offering flexibility and accessibility for candidates.
Why Choose PSAI IQC?
- Professional Development: The IQC is an excellent opportunity for divers looking to advance to instructional roles in the diving industry.
- Comprehensive Training: Emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills ensures well-rounded instructor development.
- Reputation: PSAI is renowned for its high standards and quality education in the scuba diving community.
Why Choose Us?
- Expertise in Diving Education: Our program is led by Scott, an experienced PSAI Instructor Trainer who brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights.
- High-Quality Training Standards: We adhere to PSAI's rigorous standards, ensuring you receive top-tier education that is globally recognised. Our comprehensive approach to training encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
- Personalised Attention: We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalised attention for each candidate. This approach allows for tailored guidance and feedback, enhancing your learning experience.