B. Hartwick
Hartwick@sfu.ca
 

Course Description:

An introduction to the use of diving in the marine / freshwater environment, and current issues and developments in marine research and scientific diving.

The course has three components:

1) Developing competency in diving-related topics

Topics include: standards and regulations, hazards and concerns, diving sectors and modes, diving physics, physiology and medicine, dive planning, dive tables, underwater support systems, seafloor habitats, special environments and conditions, rebreathers.

2) Developing understanding and breadth in the application of diving to marine biological, ecological and applied studies with emphasis on techniques as well as safety.

Topics include the marine environment, tools, design and methodology in scientific diving, selected studies involving innovative techniques, technical diving.

3) Developing competency as a scientific diver / surface safety attendant.

This part of the course begins with a pool session with skills review and assessment, followed by ocean dives. Divers will develop buoyancy, working buddy skills and navigation competency. Research methods and planning will be introduced. Through the course, divers may complete the PADI Research Diver specialty certification, the PADI Medic First Aid and the Canadian Red Cross "On Board" program leading to the Canadian Coast Guard authorized Pleasure Craft Operators card. Dive rescue and accident management will be covered.

Scheduling:

The first two components are covered in a weekly 3-hour meeting with a seminar / discussion format. Scheduling of the meetings will be determined at a brief preliminary meeting in the first week of classes (notices on office door C8053).

The third component involves pool work and local dives. Non-divers must participate as surface safety attendants. Scheduling and logistics related to the diving activities will be discussed at the preliminary meeting in the first week of classes. Group rentals and trip organization will be discussed at that time.

Grading:

Participation 10%
Seminar presentations 60%
Group project proposal / demonstration 30%

Note:

Students taking the course as part of a scientific diver certification program must take an exam on component I above.