ENCOUNTERS BENEATH THE SEA
In keeping with our philosophy of experiential education, IRI
believes that the only way to truly appreciate the magnitude of the ocean's
beauty--as well as it's fragile dependence on human constraint and ecological
awareness--is through the use of SCUBA.
Currently, all IRI faculty and staff are certified PADI divers. Executive Director, Paul Burkhardt, and Director of Operations, John Baldridge, are both certified not only as Rescue Divers, but also PADI DiveMasters. This enables them to lead groups of other certified divers in orientation tours of the many fascinating dive spots around Indonesia, to see for themelves the rich diversity of aquatic life, as well as stark evidence of Man's unchecked exploitation of ocean resources. As the faculty continues its efforts in continuing education, IRI will
eventually |
be
able to offer Open Water SCUBA certification as part of the standard curriculum.
For now, all students will have access to snorkelling gear, and certified
divers will be able to conduct firsthand research while diving.
