Why and How We Train Leaders

Introduction

Why we train leaders?

The Building Blocks of ScoutingScouting is based on life skills education, leadership development, citizenship, and values training. Its unique methods of program presentation are designed to help build youth with strong character who are physically fit and prepared to be good citizens.

Boy Scouts is a boy-led, boy-run organization, but the boys must be trained to be leaders. One of the Scoutmaster's most important responsibilities is to provide the direction, coaching, and training that empowers the boy with the skills he will need to lead his troop.Scouting's value to young people is clear, but the advantages of Scouting are not limited to boys. Adults also develop leadership and physical skills with every training experience.

Adult training begins with the Fast Start Orientation program, followed by Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills and the new Leader Specific Training. Further training can include Wood Badge for the 21st Century, which has evolved into the BSA's core leadership skills training course. It focuses on a person's ability to work with and lead groups of youth and adults.

Supplemental Training Modules

Supplemental training modules are designed to provide orientation beyond the basic training offered in New Leader Essentials and leaders specific training. Merit Badge Counselor Instructors GuideBoard of Review TrainingGeocaching to Promote ScoutingThe Order of the Arrow and Your TroopOrientation for New Boy Scout ParentsPlanning and Conducting a Safe Scout OutingRecruiting Quality Training StaffScoutmaster Conference TrainingSelecting Quality LeadersThe Youth Leadership Training Continuum

Recruiting Quality Training Staff

Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude

KSA necessary to make their contribution to Scouting worthwhile.How to use the many resources availableHow to use youth LeadershipBuilds confidence as the leaders carry out scouting programs

ViewpointKeep the various elements of the Scouting programs in perspectiveUnderstand the difference between the Scouting Program and its ultimate objectives

Results of TrainingGood programsYoung people stay in Scouting longerTenure of trained leaders is longerRelationship between the unit and chartered organization is strongerUltimate objectives of Scouting will be achieved

Results of TrainingA picture is worth a thousand words

1st Fundamental - DesireAdults resist learning something simply because somebody says they mustAdults learn best when they have a strong motivation to acquire a particular skill or to increase a particular knowledgeCreate the desire to learn by emphasizing the importance of the job to be accomplished

2nd Fundamental - NeedMaterials presented in a training course should provide immediate help to unit operationTry to use this idea: “This is what you do. This is why you do it. This is how you do it.”

3rd Fundamental - PracticeProvide immediate and repeated opportunities to practice and use what is being taughtOn-the-job training with a skilled trainer is an excellent method of training

4th Fundamental - RealisticUse actual situations as a basis for discussions

5th Fundamental - ExperienceIf new knowledge doesn’t fit in with what leaders already know or think they know, they may tend to reject itTraining materials should convince leaders of the best methods

6th Fundamental - Environment

Provide opportunities for fun and fellowshipEncourage discussion and questionsTry to avoid argumentsAvoid arguments that relate to policies of the Boy Scouts of America

7th Fundamental - MethodsUse a variety of training methods and technologies to improve learningChange the pace often

8th Fundamental - GuidanceLeaders want guidance and help, not grades

Four Level Training PlanFast Start TrainingBasic TrainingSupplemental TrainingAdvanced Training

SummaryWhy is training important?How would you define “quality training”?As Trainers, what can we do to assure quality in the training courses we lead?How can each of us be sure that we are well prepared to deliver training to leaders?

SummaryHow can we best use the “Eight Fundamental Requirements for Training Leaders” to prepare for the training courses we will lead?How should our training courses bring the values of Scouting through to the young people we serve?

BSA 500

Gentlemen start your engines

BSA 500 QuestionsWhat does KSA stand for?Name three results of trained leaders.What are the four levels of the training plan?Name two fundamental requirements for training leaders.