Situation Awareness and Mental Models: Making it easier to the do the right thing

Developing good situational awareness (SA) is the most important skill for divers. SA involves not only perceiving and processing information but also projecting what that information means for the future. For instance, divers may see a spool of line coming loose but fail to address it, thinking it is unimportant. Building mental models helps divers react effectively to situations, as these models allow them to draw on past experiences. To enhance these mental models, structured debriefing is essential, helping divers reflect on experiences and improve their decision-making skills under pressure.