Would someone please help me understand this test!! Buddy breathing through the whole test is understandable; but I am struggling to understand the practical side of this test when it comes to yes exchanging all of the equipment. I understand most tests that we`ve had to due up to this point but as for me; this test should be eliminated or "exchanged" with an other test.

Comments

Dorkfish - 5/15/2007 12:00 AM Ok, I`ve made some phone calls on this one. Here`s what I have been provided by a long-time instructor. Somwhere along the line an instructor or IDC candidate developed this skill in the event that a problem with the BC occurs at any given depth with a student that would not allow the student to control an ascent to the surface, inflate the BC, and remain bouyant all in the same incident. This skill is meant to be an advanced problem resolution skill since the instructor will be much more versed and confident in surfacing with the aforementioned problems and surviving it without injury whereas a student will have exponential risks due to lack of experience. Personally, if you find this senseless then you should feel the same way about Don/Doff at depth. It may seem senseless, but you just never know when you might need to use it. Don`t forget that neither of these skills will work safely w/ integrated weights and a wetsuit thicker than 3mm!

seawolfdiving - 5/15/2007 12:00 AM Wow, a very good question. Having been in your shoes (or fins) I can say that I understand your concern. This is a question that has been circulating around the industry for years. It has a lot to do with building "advanced" problem solving, adaptation, and manipulation skills. Additionally, it`s recognized as one of the better "confidence development" skills. I have posted a more detailed discussion in a Blog on my page if you care to read it. Hope this helps! Seawolf sends...

DalelynnSims - 5/15/2007 12:00 AM Actually the equipment exchange is there for one reason, to create an environment where you have to solve problems underwater. As a DMC and possibly an instructor in the future you will be faced with a host of student underwater problems that you will need to assist with. While this little exercise may not be similar to anything that you may encounter in the future successfully accomplishing it helps you gain confidence that you indeed can fix problems that arise underwater. My .02cf worth and I hope this helps Best Fishes!!! [

Greg - 5/15/2007 12:00 AM I would assume the reason for this task is to ensure you are good at multi-tasking, very comfortable with scuba gear and can handle stress while underwater. I didn`t like this task either...but you just need to relax and try not to do so much between sharing breaths. I would suggest you switch masks first to get that over with, then just undo a buckle at a time while you don`t have the reg in your mouth while slowly exhaling. It also might be easier to start off with the other persons gear on so when you`re switching, you`re getting back your own gear which makes it a bit easier to do.

GelanaBanana - 5/15/2007 12:00 AM I couldn`t agree more!! I just started my divemaster and I think (PADI) just wants to eliminate any weaklings from the program...