PADI Instructor Exam Classroom Presentation
The PADI Classroom Presentation, also known as the Knowledge Development Teaching Presentation, is a critical part of the PADI Instructor Exam (IE). In this presentation, the PADI examiner is assessing your ability to teach effectively, handle questions, demonstrate dive theory knowledge, and engage students while promoting additional training and equipment options.
Let’s break down how to structure this presentation, tips for delivering with confidence, and ways to make it memorable and effective.
Remember that the students have already read, watched and studied the theory related to this question you are now teaching, they simply got the wrong answer. The presentation doesn’t need to be too elaborate or detailed, keep it brief and to the point.
1. Setting the Stage: An Engaging Introduction
The first few minutes of your presentation are crucial for grabbing the student’s attention. Introduce the topic and question that they got wrong. Then start with an engaging story or scenario that relates to the question you’re addressing.
Your story to help engage the students may be a non-diving related story if the students are entry-level (open water) or diving-related if it is a con-ed course (advanced, rescue or divemaster).
Here’s an example of what you could say to Rescue students or Divemasters with maybe a buoyancy-related question they got wrong:
"Imagine you’re diving in an area with strong currents. One of your fellow divers starts to show signs of exhaustion and has trouble with buoyancy. You’ve covered this scenario in your Advanced Open Water course, but today, let’s dive a little deeper into understanding how air consumption, buoyancy, and current play a role in safety and enjoyment underwater."
Or if doing an entry level course and teaching students with no previous dive experiance, who maybe got an equipment, buoyancy, or buddy check question wrong. Then you may want to start with a non-diving related story to get the students attention and interaction:
"Have you ever borrowed a friend’s car or rented one on vacation? You slide into the driver’s seat, and suddenly, everything feels a bit unfamiliar. The first thing you probably do is take a moment to adjust the mirrors, seat position, and maybe locate where all the controls are. Even if you’re a confident driver, these small adjustments help you feel comfortable and in control before hitting the road. Now, why do we do that? Because it’s essential to have a solid understanding of our equipment and environment before we start. It’s the same with diving. Just like adjusting to a new car, understanding and fine-tuning your buoyancy in different underwater conditions can make all the difference between a smooth, enjoyable experience and feeling like you’re out of control."
After setting the scene, briefly introduce the topic you’re covering and explain why it’s relevant. You’re not just filling in gaps in knowledge; you’re equipping your students with skills and insights that can make them safer and more confident divers.
2. Body: Delivering Value and Building Knowledge
Once your students are intrigued, dive into the main content of the question they answered incorrectly. For instance, if they struggled with a question about buoyancy control and air consumption, break down the practical applications:
- Theory Application: Explain the science behind buoyancy and how different factors like depth and air consumption can affect it. Link this to real-world diving scenarios, like navigating through a wreck or maintaining neutral buoyancy on a reef to avoid coral damage.
- Course Relevance: Emphasize that mastering buoyancy isn’t only essential for safety but also forms the foundation for future courses like PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy or even specialized technical diving programs.
- Non-diving related training aid: Is there anything you can use to help demonstrate what you are teaching? Online images, props etc. I.e. teaching buoyancy you could have a glass of water and something that floats, sinks and/or is neutral.
Highlight where in their diving journey or the course how this knowledge will be used and how it will enhance their diving experience. Remember, the examiner wants to see that you can convey practical, real-world relevance, so tie each point to an application in their upcoming dives or courses.
"Tomorrow on dive #2 at [insert dive site here] there maybe current present and working on your buoyancy will prevent problems happening on this dive"
3. Encouraging Student Interaction
Involve your students by asking open-ended questions and encouraging them to share their thoughts or experiences:
“Can anyone share a time when they found buoyancy control a bit challenging?”
“What are some things you can adjust if you notice you’re ascending too quickly?”
This interaction not only keeps the presentation engaging but also shows the examiner that you can foster a collaborative learning environment. Guide the conversation back to the core of your topic and reinforce the learning objectives as you respond.
4. Upselling Additional Courses and Equipment
The PADI examiner will look for your ability to introduce and recommend further training and gear. In a non-pushy, educational way, explain how additional training can help solidify the skills they’re learning:
- Course Upsell: Mention related courses like Peak Performance Buoyancy for perfecting their buoyancy skills, or Enriched Air Nitrox for extending bottom times. Let them know these courses can give them a more tailored skillset for different diving conditions.
- Equipment Upsell: Bring attention to equipment that can improve their experience. For example, a buoyancy control device (BCD) with a weight-integrated system can help with comfort and trim. Or, a dive computer can assist in tracking depth and air consumption, helping them stay within safe limits.
Remember, the goal is to create genuine interest by showing how these additions enhance their diving.
5. Conclusion and Summary
Wrap up by revisiting the main points of the topic, summarizing key takeaways
Briefly summarize the importance of the knowledge covered in the question.
Reinforce why this information is essential for both safety and enjoyment during dives.
Remind the students about the PADI course and equipment you mentioned in the body.
Offer a closing statement that encourages the students to ask questions if they feel uncertain about the topic.
For example:
“So today, we’ve explored buoyancy control and air consumption—a crucial skill for any diver. As you continue your diving journey, keep practicing these techniques and consider the benefits of additional training or equipment tailored to your needs. These steps will make your dives smoother, safer, and a lot more enjoyable!”
Final Tips for Success
Stay Confident and Relaxed: The examiner isn’t expecting perfection. They’re looking for clear communication, engagement, and a professional teaching style.
Adapt to Student Needs: If a student has questions, take a moment to address them. This shows you’re attentive to student learning and are capable of managing a classroom environment.
Keep It Interactive: The more students feel involved, the more they’ll absorb the material. This is also a great way to get comfortable with teaching and connect with your students.
Preparing for the PADI Classroom Presentation can seem daunting, but with practice, you’ll develop a teaching style that’s both effective and enjoyable. Good luck, and remember that this presentation is not just a test—it’s the start of your journey as a dive instructor.