Central Michigan University
College of Humanities and Social & Behavioral Sciences
Military Science Department
Master Course Syllabus
MSL 102
Desig. No.
Basic Leadership
Title
2(Spec)
Credit (Mode)
I. Bulletin Description:
Introduction to military leadership, briefings, writing, interpersonal communications, problem-solving,
decision making, critical thinking, goal setting, assertiveness, counseling, and nutrition; explores Army
opportunities and benefits.
II. Prerequisites, Pre/Co-requisites, Co-requisites, Recommended
III. Rationale for course level (new course and level changes):
IV. Textbook and other required materials to be furnished by the student:
None. Military Science Department furnishes course textbook and workbook.
V. Special requirements of the course:
Weekly two-hour Leadership Lab and a minimum one hour physical training session is required. Students
will need a standard physical to participate in the weekly Physical Training.
VI. General methodology used in teaching this course:
Course will stress leadership theory (science) in the classroom and the application (art) of leadership
during Leadership Labs. Methodologies used will include lecture, class discussions, practical exercises,
case studies, and announced and unannounced examinations.
VII. Course Objectives:
The overall objective of this course is to explore in detain the Army’s Leadership philosophies and learn
fundament military concepts. After completion of this course students will be able to:
• Identify types of briefings, characteristics of effective briefings, and effective presenter tone and
style characteristics;
• Identify differences between active and passive voice, and the techniques of effective writing;
ethical writing;
• Demonstrate how to write a thesis statement, and paragraphs to support it;
• Describe the Army problem solving process, and situational factors that impact problem solving;
• Identify methods of time and information management to support problem solving;
• Classify information as fact, assumption, criterion, opinion or definition;
• Assess the importance and accuracy of information using critical thinking skills;
• Apply brainstorming techniques to generate potential problem solutions;
• Identify common impediments to creative thinking;
• Identify personal goals, apply goal-setting techniques, and analyze goals;
• Describe the importance of active listening to effective leadership;
• Apply reflective listening and questioning techniques, and SOLER techniques;
• Differentiate between assertion, aggression, and acquiescence;
• Formulate and demonstrate a 3-part assertion message;
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Describe the role of a leader in developing subordinates through counseling techniques;
Identify the four qualities a leader must possess to be an effective counselor;
Describe “subordinate-centered” counseling;
Identify nutritional foods, select healthy foods, and describe the importance of nutritional eating
on a healthy lifestyle;
Describe the missions of the Army branches, how the branches work together, and common
officer duties between all branches;
Identify the major benefits that the Army provides service members;
Describe the normal duty day of an Active Army lieutenant;
Identify and compare typical day-to-day activities within each of the branches;
VIII. Course Outline: Classes: 16 at 50 minutes Labs: 16 at 110 minutes
Week
Subject
1
Briefings
Lab
Team-building Exercise
2
Lab
The Army Writing Style
Individual & Unit Movement Techniques
3
Lab
The Army Problem-Solving Process I
Radio Phraseology & Tactical Reports
4
Lab
The Army Problem-Solving Process II
Prisoner of War Handling & Law of Land Warfare
5
Lab
Goal Setting
Move to Contact & React to Contact
6
Lab
Active Listening
Opportunities to serve in National Guard & Army Reserves
7
Lab
Assertiveness Skills
Attack & Defend
8
Lab
Mid-Term Exam
Ambush & React to Contact
9
Lab
Nolde Lecture
Field Training Exercise Preparations
10
Lab
Counseling Methods I
First Aid
11
Lab
Counseling Methods II
Drill & Ceremony
12
Lab
Nutrition
Rappelling, High-Ropes Course and Rock Climbing
13
Lab
Life in the Army I
Uniform & Equipment Turn-in
14
Lab
Life in the Army II
Team-building Exercises
15
Lab
Review
Awards Ceremony
16
Lab
Final Exam
Sensing Session
IX. Evaluation: Grade is based on the following:
Class Attendance
5%
Class Preparation (Quizzes & Practical Exercises)
5%
Physical Fitness
5%
Oral Presentations
15%
Writing Requirements
20%
Tests
50%
X. Bibliography:
• Field Manual 3-25.26, Map Reading and Land Navigation (Aug 06)
• Field Manual 6-22: Army Leadership (Oct 06)
• Field Manual 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad (Mar 07)
• Student Text: MSL I, Introduction to Leadership, Pearson Custom Publishing, 2008
• Training Circular TC 3-22-20 Army Physical Readiness Training. Washington, DC: U.S.
Government Printing Office, August 2010.
• Soldier Training Packet 21-1 – Soldier Manual Common Task #071-326-0505
Syllabus prepared by:
Aaron Kalloch, LTC, Chair, Military Science
Name
___________________________________
Signature
_03/25/2010 ______ _________________
Date