Acheiving success in the SDI Instructor Evaluation Process IEC

Becoming a certified SDI Instructor means more than just knowing how to dive. It requires demonstrating a set of specific teaching skills that ensure you can effectively train new divers. The SDI Instructor Evaluation is designed to test these skills thoroughly, focusing on the core teaching components: classroom presentation, confined water lesson, open water lesson and rescue skills. Understanding and mastering these elements is crucial for anyone aiming to succeed as an Instructor Evaluation Candidate (IEC).

This guide breaks down the essential skill performance requirements for the SDI Instructor Evaluation and offers practical advice to help you prepare confidently.

Classroom Presentation: Engaging and Informative Teaching

Instructor candidate doing a presetation in the classroom with actual students. An actual learning experience thru the Instructor Develoment Course (IDC)

The first major component of the SDI Instructor Evaluation requires delivering a classroom presentation lasting at least 15 minutes. This presentation tests your ability to communicate dive theory clearly and engage your students effectively.

Key Elements of a Successful Classroom Presentation

• Clear Structure  

Organize your presentation logically. Start with an introduction that outlines the topic, followed by the main points, and finish with a summary. This helps students follow along and retain information.

• Use of Visual Aids  

Incorporate slides, diagrams, or videos to illustrate complex concepts like dive physics, physiology, or equipment use. Visuals make the material more accessible and memorable.

• Interactive Teaching  

Encourage questions and discussions. This interaction keeps students engaged and allows you to assess their understanding in real time.

• Time Management  

Practice your presentation to ensure it fits within the 15-minute minimum without rushing or dragging.

Practical Tips

• Topics that will be asigned are mostly physics and physiology. Be comfortable with the subject and stay relevant to the course curriculum.

• Use simple language and avoid jargon to make the content accessible.

• Rehearse in front of peers or mentors to get feedback on clarity and pacing.

  
  

Confined Water Lesson: Demonstrating Practical Skills

Instructor candidate performing skills on neutral bouyancy

The second requirement is to conduct a full lesson in confined water, typically a pool or controlled environment. This session tests your ability to teach essential diving skills safely and effectively.

What the Confined Water Lesson Should Cover

• Skill Demonstration  

Show how to perform fundamental skills such as mask clearing, regulator recovery, buoyancy control, and emergency procedures.

• Student Practice  

Guide students through practicing these skills, providing clear instructions and constructive feedback.

• Safety Emphasis  

Highlight safety protocols and ensure students understand their importance.

How to Excel in Confined Water Teaching

• Prepare a detailed lesson plan outlining each skill, teaching points, and safety considerations.

• Use positive reinforcement to build student confidence.

• Adjust your teaching style to suit different learning paces and styles.

• Monitor students closely and intervene promptly if they struggle.

Open Water Lesson: Applying Skills in Real Conditions

Applying teaching skills in openwater environment being evaluated by the Instructor Trainer

The final part of the evaluation requires teaching a full lesson in open water. This is where theory and confined water practice come together in a real diving environment.

Critical Focus Areas for Open Water Lessons

• Skill Application  

Help students apply confined water skills in open water, adapting to changing conditions like currents, visibility, and depth.

• Environmental Awareness  

  Teach students to respect marine life and follow responsible diving practices.

• Emergency Preparedness  

  Reinforce emergency procedures and ensure students can respond calmly and effectively.

Tips for Successful Open Water Instruction

• Conduct thorough pre-dive briefings covering dive plan, signals, and safety.

• Maintain close supervision and stay within easy reach of students.

• Use clear, calm communication underwater.

• Be ready to assist or abort the dive if conditions become unsafe.

  
  

An instructor candidate performing rescue skills which is an essntial part of the evaluation process

Preparing for the SDI Instructor Evaluation

Preparation is key to mastering the SDI Instructor Evaluation. Here are some strategies to help you get ready:

• Practice Each Component  

Rehearse your classroom presentation multiple times, teach confined water skills to peers, and conduct open water sessions under supervision.

• Seek Feedback  

  Ask experienced instructors to observe your teaching and provide constructive criticism.

• Know the Standards  

Familiarize yourself with SDI’s teaching standards and evaluation criteria to understand what evaluators expect.

• Stay Calm and Confident  

Confidence comes from preparation. Approach the evaluation with a positive mindset and focus on demonstrating your skills clearly.

Final Thoughts on Achieving IEC Success

The SDI Instructor Evaluation is a comprehensive test of your teaching abilities across classroom, confined water, and open water settings. Excelling in each area requires clear communication, practical skill demonstration, and adaptability to student needs and environmental conditions.

By focusing on these