EXD 320-12 Introduction to Leadership

3 Hours Administrative Sciences or Human Services
Instructor: Dr. Jimmy Thompson
8741 Ashford Circle
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
(205) 750-0776
jthompson@bpcc.ua.edu
*Contract should be completed 6 months after beginning date.

Important Contract Policies

Purpose

Gain an understanding of leadership through studying theories and current topics that address the concept of leadership. Be able to identify effective leadership styles.

Learning Objectives
  1. To identify effective leadership styles as presented in various group situations
  2. To gain a working knowledge of the concept of leadership and how this definition can be applied to group and work environments.
  3. To gain knowledge of leadership theories. The student will be able to identify strengths and weaknesses of leadership theories that are presented.
  4. To demonstrate ability to apply knowledge of constructing a model for effective leadership. The model should pertain to the student's work environment. (If the student is not employed, a hypothetical model may be developed.)
Methodology
  1. Read Dr. James W. Thompson's workbook on leadership. Answer the questions at the end of each chapter.
  2. Read 5 articles, provided by the External Degree Program, that directly address the concept of leadership. Submit (at least 3 typed double-spaced pgs.) reports on each of these articles.
  3. Write a research paper, not less than 8 pages. The student may choose any topic relating to leadership.
Resources
  1. Leadership workbook written by Dr. James W. Thompson, "Essentials in Leadership."
  2. 5 articles and bibliography by the Contract Director available as an online course reserve at http://www.lib.ua.edu. Click on “course reserves” and select “Jimmy Thompson.” Note: this document is in pdf format. You will need to download Adobe’s free reader at http://www.adobe.com. If you need help, please call us at (205)348-6000.
*The workbook, "Essentials in Leadership," should be ordered directly from the Contract Director. Send a check for $15.00 (which includes mailing) to: Dr. Jimmy Thompson Box 870156 The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0156

Evaluation
  1. Workbook exercises.
  2. Critiques, of 5 articles (3 typewritten, double-spaced, pgs. for each article).
  3. Brief research paper on leadership theories (minimum 8 typed, double-spaced, pgs.).