Why & How We Train Leaders Session Objectives: At the end of this session you should be able to: Explain why trained leaders are vital to successful Scouting. List the fundamental requirements for trained leaders. Explain the four-level training plan

Methods Of Instruction in this session : Presentation (talks), Buzz Groups Preparation: Review Training Technology Session materials, and review Training Methods Session materials. Materials: Flipcharts (pad, markers, easel) and/or overheads (vu-graphs, projector, pointer, markers), BSA 500 Q&A sheet for each Steward Eight Fundamentals of Training Leaders Hand-out given to participants at end of session Logistics: Main meeting room with all TDC participants. NOTES FOR WHY & HOW WE TRAIN LEADERS SESSION STAFF MEMBERS

Why Train Leaders? Why is Training Important? Everyone requires training for anything that is to be done well. What type of training have you received during your lifetime? List Examples

PURPOSE OF TRAINING To deliver a quality program to youth membership To distribute accurate and timely information To ensure health and safety To deliver on the promise To provide consistency in programs To develop effective leaders To promote BSA principles To have fun and learn EVERY YOUTH MEMBER DESERVES A TRAINED LEADER

Benefits of Training Leaders In Scouting, trained leaders can insure youth members receive a meaningful (and safe) experience filled with fun and adventure. The overall impact that Scouting has on the lives of young people is highly dependent upon their adult leaders ability to understand the aims, principles and techniques used in the Scouting program. Trained Leaders are better equipped to consistently deliver quality programs that retain youth members, and they provide the foundation that supports active units.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude Effective Trainers must have KSA. K nowledge is an understanding of basic principles and goals. S kills are the techniques used to apply knowledge. A ttitude is the method used to transfer knowledge and skills to others.. Training helps leaders acquire knowledge, perfect skills, and develop attitudes that make their contributions to Scouting worthwhile.

Basic Objectives of Training Leaders Trained Leaders are more confident. They understand the how and why of their Scouting position. They are more effective in helping young people achieve the overall BSA goals of developing character, citizenship, and personal fitness. They understand that Scouting is an accumulation of activities designed to build positive attributes in youth. Their perspective is that games, camping, crafts, and badges are not ends unto themselves, but the means of achieving overall BSA goals.

Results of Training Leaders Trained leaders offer more activities that appeal to young people. Young people stay in Scouting longer when units have trained leaders. Tenure of trained leaders are longer, compared to untrained leaders. Relationships between units and their charter organizations are stronger when leaders understand the overall goals of Scouting, and their job. Training helps leaders develop KSA, which increases the chance of the Scouting program achieving its overall goals of developing character, citizenship, and personal fitness.

Eight Fundamental Requirements for Training Leaders 1. DESIRE: Leaders must want to learn, and should have a strong motivation to acquire KSA. Trainers can help by emphasizing the benefits of completing a course. 2. NEED: Leaders only learn what they feel is necessary. Trainers can help by presenting KSA that can be applied immediately, by explaining This is what you do, This is why you do it, and This is how its done. 3. PRACTICE: Leaders learn by doing. Trainers can help by offering opportunities to exercise what is being taught, and On-the-Job-Training (OJT) is an excellent method for reinforcing KSA. 4. REALISM: Concepts presented in training courses must be realistic. Trainers can help by using actual (real-life) situations as a basis for discussions.

Eight Fundamental Requirements for Training Leaders (cont) 5. EXPERIENCE: A Leaders ability to learn is influenced by previous experiences. Trainers can help by presenting material that emphasizes best methods to promote acceptance of new techniques. 6. ENVIRONMENT: Leaders learn best in a relaxed, comfortable, and informal environment. Trainers can help by utilizing fellowship and fun activities to encourage discussions and questions, while preventing conflicts and arguments. 7. METHODS: Leaders react differently to training methods. Trainers can help by using a variety of methods and technologies to improve learning, and periodically changing the pace to avoid boredom. 8. GUIDANCE: Leaders want guidance, not grading. Trainers can help by creating an atmosphere that is not threatening, and providing assistance in a constructive manner.

The Four Level Training Plan 1.FAST START (Orientation): Training should take place immediately after accepting a leadership position. Usually delivered through self- study by video tape or on-line website. Purpose is to acquaint the new leader with basic Scouting concepts, provide specific information about leadership responsibilities, and build a foundation for further training. 2.BASIC TRAINING: Consists of a series of training sessions designed to provide job-related information. Each program (Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing) has specific training sessions that are intended to help leaders become more effective in their Scouting job. 3.SUPPLEMENTAL TRAINING: Consists of a variety of courses designed to provide additional information about specific areas of Scouting. Examples include Cub Scout Leader Pow Wows, Commissioner Training, Round Table Presentations, etc. 4.ADVANCED TRAINING: Wood Badge is an intensive course designed to develop leadership skills, and promote deeper dedication to continued involvement in Scouting.

Session Summary The following topics were covered during this session: Why training is important. The definition of quality training. What trainers can do to assure quality is maintained in the training courses they offer. Things that should be considered when training leaders. Applying the Eight Fundamental Requirements for Training Leaders when offering courses. The value that training courses bring to the Scouting program. How trained leaders influence young peoples involvement in Scouting.

BSA 500 LAP # SECONDS 1.What does KSA stand for? 2.Name three results of training leaders. 3.What are the four levels of the training plan? 4.Name three fundamental requirements for training leaders.

BSA 500 LAP # 1 - ANSWERS 1. KSA = Knowledge, Skills, Attitude 2. Results of training leaders: Good programs with increased youth interest Youth stay in Scouting longer Tenure of trained leaders is longer Stronger relationships between Charter Org. and Unit Better chance of achieving BSA goals 3. Four Level Training Fast Start (Orientation) Basic Training Supplemental Training Advanced Training (WB) 4. Fundamental Requirements for Training Leaders Desire Need PracticeRealism ExperienceEnvironment VarietyGuidance

DISTRIBUTE HAND-OUT TO PARTICIPANTS Eight Fundamental Requirements for Training Leaders