LDR 3950 (Section 0003) Capstone-LEAD Scholars
2 credit hours
Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Central Florida
COURSE SYLLABUS
Instructor:
Michael A. Freeman
Term:
Spring 2011
Office:
Alcohol & Other Drug Prevention Program
Building 27 (Counseling Building)
Class
Meeting
Days:
Wednesday
Phone:
407-718-6724 (Cell)
Class
Meeting
Hours:
1:30 – 3:20pm
E-Mail:
Michael.Freeman@ucf.edu
Class
Location:
BA 225
Website:
http://lead.sdes.ucf.edu/
http://leadfall2011.wikispaces.com/
http://www.facebook.com/groups/160431707384890/
http://www.4FoldWay2012.blogspot.com
Office Hours:
By appointment
I. University Course Catalog Description
Independent study of leadership issues including leadership theories, and related principles and
practices. PR: LDR 2001, LDR 2002 and LDR 3930; Must be a current 2 nd year LEAD Scholar.
II. Course Overview
The experience of the Capstone course offers the opportunity for LEAD Scholars and Leadership
Studies Minor students to pull together what they have learned and experienced in their previous
exposure to leadership (both in and out of the classroom) and use this integrating experience to
demonstrate they are capable of reaching their full potential as leaders and citizens. Students will
practice and demonstrate the leadership skills they will need to succeed after matriculation from
the program. It also presents the LEAD Scholars Program with a final opportunity to observe
student learning and to assess whether or not the program has been successful in its mission.
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III. Course Objectives
This section of LDR 3950 focuses on “Leaders as Change Agents.” We will define what it means
to be a change agent, how to recognize the change agent within oneself, and how the roles of selfefficacy and empowerment impact the process of being and becoming agents of change through
experience and reflection (Dreschsler & Jones, 2009).
By the end of this course through independent research, self reflection, group discussions, projects,
service learning, and graded assessments, students will be able to:

Think critically, perform in-depth research, and make interdisciplinary connections between
leadership and their other courses of study

Analyze the idea of community service and civic responsibility

Speak in public and give compelling, persuasive presentations

Clearly establish identity as leaders, both presently and in the future

Understand the transition from the undergraduate academic setting to the world of graduate
education or professional life

Develop a professional portfolio

Understand the role of leaders as change agents

Understand cultural competencies in the development of global leadership

Incorporate inclusive language in classroom interactions and presentations

Understand contemporary leadership theories and practices as related to citizenship and civic
engagement

Articulate personal leadership philosophy or style involved in solving problems on campus and in
the community
Course Cultural Competencies:
Global leadership competencies, sometimes referred to as cultural competencies are imperative for
effective inclusive leadership. Cultural competencies provide the awareness, knowledge and skills
required in creating spaces of respect and value for all organizational stakeholders.
*At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to demonstrate the following cultural
competences:

(C1) Define and understand vocabulary as it relates to diversity and inclusion

(C2) Understand that diversity is represented by all the ways in which human beings differ.
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
(C4) Recognize the elements of “culture” and apply their knowledge by comparing and
contrasting similarities and differences among cultures.

(C5) Identify their own racial/ethnic heritages and associated culture and demonstrate how their
perspectives affect interactions with others.

(C7) Understand that differences in communication patterns exist among and with cultures and
analyze how differences in communication may lead to misunderstandings.

(A1) Respectfully listen with appreciation to others’ diverse life experiences and demonstrate
understanding.

(A2) Engage in interactions with people of different “cultures” and share examples of their own life
experiences, values, beliefs, and feelings.

(A5) Consider instances in which they have been stereotyped and share with others the
emotional impacts these views had on them.

(A6) Recognize instances in which they have stereotyped others, consider the emotional effects
of these stereotypes on others, and assume responsibility for their behavior.

(S1) Practice listening to others in attentive, active, and affirmative ways.

(S2) Describe, practice, and demonstrate actions that may be taken when confronted with
stereotypes.

(S4) Use inclusive language in classroom, social, and professional settings.

(S5) Apply conflict resolution skills when presented with disagreements related to diversity issues.
*Based on the proposed recommendations for undergraduate students at the University of Central
Florida, by the Office of Diversity Initiatives and members of the faculty and staff of UCF.
IV. Course Prerequisites
PR: LDR 2001, LDR 2002 and LDR 3215; Must be a current 2nd year LEAD Scholar.
V. Course Credits
2 credit hours
VI. Required Texts and Materials
Komives, S. &. (2009). Leadership for a Better World. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Arrien, A. (1993). The four-fold way: Walking the paths of the warrior, teachers, healer, and visionary.
New York: HarperCollins.
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VII. Basis for Final Grade
Course Requirements:
Leadership Mosaic Project
Final Portfolio Submission
Social Change Service Project
Reaction/Reflection Papers-2
Attendance and Participation (Includes
Reading assignments/Discussions)
Class Assignments and case studies
Final Exam
TOTAL:
(pts)
(200)
(200)
(300)
(200)
%
20
20
30
20
(100)
10
1000
100
VIIII. Grade Dissemination
Graded tests and materials in this course will be graded and returned timely. You can also access your
scores at any time using “myUCF Grades” in the portal. Please note that scores returned mid-semester
are unofficial grades. If you need help accessing myUCF Grades, see the online tutorial:
https://myucfgrades.ucf.edu/help/ )
IX. Course Policies: Grades
Class Policies and Expectations:
1. All papers must be typed. 12-point Times New Roman font, with 1 inch margins on all four sides
of paper. Additional guidelines will be given in class.
2. There will be graded assignments. If you miss class, it is best to contact a class member to see if
an assignment has been given. You are responsible for obtaining and knowing the assignments
given in class and turning them in on time. All assignments must be turned in at the beginning of
class on the due date. If you or the assignment(s) are not present when the assignment is
collected, the assignment will be late and you will not receive full credit. You will lose point’s
equivalent to 1 letter grade if your assignment is late and one letter grade per business day for
assignments turned in anytime after the next class period.
3. If a submitted assignment does not meet requirements, it will be graded accordingly. If you have
any questions regarding an assignment, contact me via phone or e-mail ASAP.
4. Grades are non-negotiable.
5. Class assignments and topics are subject to change as needed. Students will be given adequate
notice of altered due dates.
6. Be respectful of others in the class- both their opinions and comments.
7. Approach each class with a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn.
8. All cellular phones must be turned off.
9. Late Work Policy: There are no make-ups for writing assignments, presentations, the midterm, or
the final exam, however exceptions may be granted by the instructor in extreme circumstances.
Essays turned in late will be assessed a penalty: a half-letter grade if it is one day late, or a fullletter grade for 2-7 days late. Essays will not be accepted if overdue by more than seven days.
10. Extra Credit Policy: Extra credit will be granted at the discretion of the faculty member.
11. Grades of "Incomplete": The current university policy concerning incomplete grades will be
followed in this course. Incomplete grades are given only in situations where unexpected
emergencies prevent a student from completing the course and the remaining work can be
completed the next semester. Your instructor is the final authority on whether you qualify for an
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incomplete. Incomplete work must be finished by the end of the subsequent semester or the “I”
will automatically be recorded as an “F” on your transcript.
12. Rewrite Policy: Rewrites may be granted by the instructor on an individual basis.
13. Group Work Policy: Everyone must take part in a group project. Once formed, groups cannot be
altered or switched, except for reasons of extended hospitalization.
X. Course Policies: Technology and Media
The instructor welcomes the use of technology and media to enhance and promote an open learning
environment, and reserves the right to govern the use of technology and media in the classroom. Please
note: Mobile phone texts, instant messages or any use of electronic equipment/media that disrupts the
learning environment or is disrespectful to the presenter(s), including the instructor or individual learning
community members, will not be allowed.
XI. Course Policies: Student Expectations
Disability Access: The University of Central Florida is committed to providing reasonable
accommodations for all persons with disabilities. This syllabus is available in alternate formats upon
request. Students with disabilities who need accommodations in this course must contact the professor at
the beginning of the semester to discuss needed accommodations. No accommodations will be provided
until the student has met with the professor to request accommodations. Students who need
accommodations must be registered with Student Disability Services, Student Resource Center Room
132, phone (407) 823-2371, TTY/TDD only phone (407) 823-2116, before requesting accommodations
from the professor.
Attendance and Participation: Class contributions are based on your active, quality participation in the
class. Students will be evaluated on their contribution to class discussions. Each student is expected to
attend class on time and stay for the full class. Lateness or early departure from class severely decreases
your participation grade. Attendance is not equal to class participation. In order to receive a good grade
for class participation, you must actively and regularly contribute in class discussions and activities.
Attendance at all classes is required. You are allowed one excused absence (but you are still responsible
for any assignments and material on all days you miss class Absences after your first excused absence
will be reflected in your final grade. Only documented medical and family emergencies are not considered
in evaluating attendance (Student Health Center notices not accepted).
Professionalism Policy: Per university policy and classroom etiquette; mobile phones, iPods, etc. must
be silenced during all classroom and lab lectures. Those not heeding this rule will be asked to leave the
classroom/lab immediately so as to not disrupt the learning environment. Please arrive on time for all
class meetings. Students who habitually disturb the class by talking, arriving late, etc., and have been
warned may suffer a reduction in their final class grade.
Academic Conduct Policy: Academic dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. If you are uncertain
as to what constitutes academic dishonesty, please consult The Golden Rule, the University of Central
Florida's Student Handbook (http://www.goldenrule.sdes.ucf.edu/) for further details. As in all University
courses, The Golden Rule Rules of Conduct will be applied. Violations of these rules will result in a record
of the infraction being placed in your file and receiving a zero on the work in question AT A MINIMUM. At
the instructor’s discretion, you may also receive a failing grade for the course. Confirmation of such
incidents can also result in expulsion from the University.
University Writing Center: The University Writing Center (UWC) is a free resource for UCF
undergraduates and graduates. At the UWC, a trained writing consultant will work individually with you on
anything you're writing (in or out of class), at any point in the writing process from brainstorming to editing.
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Appointments are recommended, but not required. For more information or to make an appointment, visit
the UWC website at http://www.uwc.ucf.edu or call 407.823.2197.
Service-Learning Statement: This course is a UCF sanctioned service-learning class. Students will
spend a minimum of 15 hours over the course of the semester on a service-learning activity. This
activity will address a need in our community, support our course objectives, involve a connection
between the campus and the world around it, challenge students to be civically engaged, and involve
structured student reflection. We’ll spend time reflecting on our service-learning experience through class
conversations, online discussions, within your committees, and other graded assignments While there is
a 15 hour minimum for service to pass the course, your service-learning efforts will be the core of much of
the learning in the course. Therefore your "grade" for service-learning will come from the tangible classrelated projects that come out of it rather than simply from completion of the hour minimum.
Our service-learning work in this course will include developing and executing a community service
experience based on the social change model. This will allow students to work with a real world audience
and will ensure that the significant time you put into your class project leads to meaningful results. The
service learning/community service will begin with a signed agreement among the students, the agency
contact person, and the instructor. If any student has a valid objection to a proposed service-learning
project or placement, he or she must let me know during the first week of class or before the drop/add
deadline so we can discuss other options.
XII. Important Dates to Remember
The University academic calendar can be found at
http://www.registrar.sdes.ucf.edu/calendar/academic/2012/fall/. Course dates and assignments are
tentative, and can be changed at the discretion of the professor.
Last Day to Add/Drop Classes:
Grade Forgiveness Deadline:
Mid – Term Examination:
Spring Break:
Withdrawal Deadline:
Final Examination:
Friday, January 13, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
February 22, 2012
March 5 – 10, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
April 25, 2012
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XIII. Schedule
Week and
Date
Content
TOPIC ASSIGNMENTS/READINGS DUE
Week 1
Jan 11
-Introductions & Expectations
-Review Leadership Philosophy
-Syllabus overview
-Assignment explanations and
examples
-Mosaic Project Description
-Access wiki by accepting invitation: (if
you have not previously)
http://leadfall2011.wikispaces.com/
-Access FB group:
-Leaders as Change Agents
-Culturally Competent Leadership
-Mosaic Project Presentation
-The Language of Diversity & Inclusion
-Social Change Service Project Groups
-Prezi Tutorials
-Wiki-Assignment #1
-Please have Four-Fold Way in time to
complete assignment for 1/25.
-Case study/in-class assignment
-Bullying
-Book Discussion
-Wiki-Assignment #2
-Preliminary group findings on Social
-Change Service Project
-Mosaic Presentation Sign-up
-Service Project Committee Work
Meetings
-Wiki-Assignment #3
-Work on Service Project
Lead Impact Event
We will be meeting in SU Rm 218C,
Key West
-Lead Impact Event
-Inclusive Communication
-Book Discussion
-Reaction Paper #1 Due
https://www.facebook.com/groups/160431707384890/
-Access Prezi to establish account:
http://prezi.com/
Week 2
Jan 18
Week 3
Jan 25
Week 4
Feb 1
Week 5
Feb 8
-“Finding Your Passion for Leadership”
-Ms. Monica May, Star 94.5
Week 6
Feb 15
-Wiki-Assignment #4
Week 7
Feb 22
-Mid-Term Check-In
-Video Debrief
-Review Status of
1. Service Hours
2. Service Learning Project
3. Mosaic
-Wiki-Assignment #5
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Week 8
Feb 29
-Service Project Committee Work
Meetings
-Work on Service Project
-Mosaic Presentations
-Book Discussion
-Mosaic Presentations
-Wiki-Assignment #6
-Human Trafficking
-Guest Speaker: Human Trafficking
-Mosaic Presentation
Week 9
Mar 7
Week 10
Mar 14
Week 11
Mar 21
-Lead Impact Event:
-Lead Impact Event
We will be meeting in SU, Rm 218C,
Key West
-“Leaders as Change-Agents”
Week 12
Mar 28
-Conflict Resolution
-Leaders as Mediators
-Reaction Paper #2 Due
-Guest Speaker: Conflict Resolution
-Mosaic Presentations
Week 13
Apr 4
-So What and Now What? (Applications -Wiki-Assignment #7
-Mosaic Presentations
and Transitions)
-“Can you really ever go home, again?” -Guest Speaker: TBA
Week 14
Apr 11
-Service Project/Committee Work
Complete Work on Service Project
-Service Project Presentations
-Turn in your paperwork!!
-Service Project Presentations
- Portfolio due
Week 15
Apr 18
Week 16
Apr 25
-FINAL
-Semester Debrief
* Note: The Schedule is subject to revision
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XIV. Essay and Project Assignments
Leadership Mosaic: (200 pts)
This assignment has two portions: a written paper and a presentation. This assignment will be worth a
total of 20% of your grade, divided equally between the two requirements (paper and presentation). The
paper is due in your final portfolio submission by Class 15. Presentations will be given on various
days, and you will sign up for a date to present. For this assignment, you will be creating a “mosaic”
of sources that have had an impact on your personal theory and practice of leadership. You must
prepare and bring a list of readings, films, videos, art exhibits, primary documents, scientific theories,
poems, radio programs, newspapers, magazines, novels, etc. that have influenced you and your personal
relationship to leadership in a significant way.
Your mosaic should include at least 7 items (chose from the suggested list of sources above).
Make sure to vary the type of entry and the origin of each entry so that you reflect on numerous
courses and experiences. Some entries may come from your life outside of University of Central
Florida classrooms, but please do not submit lists that only contain artifacts of popular culture.
Under each entry, write a substantive paragraph that explains how the entry has influenced
your thinking and/or shaped your perspective about leadership. You might link the entry with
subsequent activities in your life. (For example, perhaps you studied Jacob Riis’ photographs of
poor immigrants in a photojournalism class that changed the way you viewed poverty and
adequate housing and influenced you to volunteer at a local shelter or change your career plans).
Try to identify how and why each piece of the mosaic has affected you, and why you
remember it out of all the material that has passed before you during your university years. You
should also identify what general liberal studies category the entry corresponds to (i.e. science,
social science, arts, literature, religion, history, philosophy, etc.)
Prepare a presentation to give to the class that focuses on one or two “pieces” of your
mosaic. This presentation should be between 6-8 minutes long (including the use of any
multimedia – i.e. showing a music video to the class or giving a slideshow of a particular artist’s
work). Further information on presentation will be discussed in class.
Final Portfolio Submission: (200 pts)
LDR 3950 will require you to submit a final portfolio of your class work. This assignment will be worth a
total of 20% of your grade. The portfolio must be submitted no later than the last day of class
(April 18th). The portfolio should be a three-ring binder or folder, with the following assignments included.
These assignments should be delineated clearly by tabs, and should include a table of contents.

Portfolio requirements:
o Resume
o Personal leadership philosophy
o Leadership mosaic paper and appropriate artifacts
o Memorandum from service project
o Signed community service form

Personal Leadership Philosophy:
o In LDR 2001, you created a personal leadership philosophy. For this capstone class, you
will revise that philosophy. Your leadership philosophy will be included in your final
portfolio submission by the final class. Carefully consider your current “personal
leadership philosophy,” especially in contrast to what you crafted in LDR 2001. Include in
this section, “what it was, what it is now and why has it changed.” If it has not changed
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for you, then talk about why it has remained consistent. This only needs to be a
paragraph or two.
Social Change Service Project: (300 pts)
As part of the Leadership capstone experience, you and an assigned group are required contribute
service and raise funds for an approved agency or organization. It is up to you and your group to
determine which specific agency or organization you want to work with. You will turn in a memorandum
summarizing your experience (no longer than one page) and be prepared to give a final 10 minute
presentation to the class on Week 13. The Service project and presentation will account for 30% of
your final course grade. Further instructions will be presented by the instructor.
Reflection/Reaction Papers: (100 pts)
There will be two reflection/reaction papers due this semester. Please refer to the syllabus for the due
dates. Details on the subject and expectations will be provided by the instructor. All assignments must
be typed, in 12-point Times New Roman font, with 1 inch margins on all four sides. Each paper will be
worth 50 pts for a total of 100 pts, which represents 10% of your final grade.
Leadership Reading Assignments, Attendance & Class Participation: (100 pts)
We will discuss the book, The four-fold way: Walking the paths of the warrior, teacher, healer, and
visionary, in class through a small group, “book club” format. Students will receive credit for this
assignment through class participation (and perhaps through blogging). You are expected to have the
assigned reading completed prior to class discussion. Each student will be evaluated by how much they
contribute to quality discussion about the book. The book can be purchased, used, at a number of book
sellers. Amazon has the book beginning at $.26 plus postage. Here is the link to the page:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_1_12?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&fieldkeywords=the+four+fold+way&sprefix=the+four+fol
Please have your book in time to participate in class on January 25, 2012.
The instructor firmly believes, in order to provide students with the tools to be an effective leader,
attendance, participation, and a positive attitude are essential as a member of this program and the
learning community. Attendance and participation will constitute 10% of your final grade.
Final Exam:
The instructor may, at his discretion include a final exam to measure the how well course objectives were
met. Students will be notified at least three weeks in advance of scheduled final exam, if there is to be a
final exam.
If you have any questions on any assignment, please don’t wait until the last minute to ask. I am
more than happy to help.
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