Catalog Description

Hours: 36 lecture
Description: Introductory course in leadership development, which explores student government, student clubs and organizations, and aspects of group dynamics. Students gain knowledge in applying practical leadership skills to out-of-class projects; such as planning and running effective meetings, parliamentary procedure, group leadership, and motivation techniques. (CSU)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Access college and/or community resources that can help students achieve their goals.
  • CSLO #2: Apply critical thinking and problem-solving strategies to make leadership decisions.
  • CSLO #3: Identify leadership style and apply leadership skills.

Effective Term

Fall 2024

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

36

Outside of Class Hours

72

Total Student Learning Hours

108

Course Objectives

Through active engagement in the course and course materials, you will: 

1. Identify and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various leadership styles and apply them as a leader; 

2. Analyze the characteristics of effective group meetings as they apply to community colleges participatory governance and parliamentary procedure; 

3. Analyze and evaluate small group dynamics in order to foster effective group interactions, motivate team members, and build and strengthen alliances; 

4. Show sensitivity to individuals and cultural differences within groups and the ability to tailor one’s style of leadership based on this knowledge. 

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
      • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
        • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

          Articulation Information

          • CSU Transferable

          Methods of Evaluation

          • Classroom Discussions
            • Example: Moon survival game is used to identify group development issues. After group and individual analysis of issues, students will then individually create a plan to address development of their group's strengths and weaknesses and present it orally to the class. Clear goals, relevant activities or discussion points and measurable outcomes are key evaluation pieces.
          • Projects
            • Example: Students will create a personal mission statement that reflects their most important principles and values. Students will respond to their classmate's personal mission statements, providing constructive feedback.
          • Other
            • Example: The final assignment will consist of a reflection paper focusing on the student's growth and development as a leader.

          Repeatable

          No

          Methods of Instruction

          • Lecture/Discussion
          • Distance Learning

          Lecture:

          1. Instructor facilitates interpretation of "Myers Briggs" and "True Colors" results from class, focusing on strengths and opportunities. Using small group activities, instructor will highlight different perspectives and application to leadership styles.
          2. Using the in-class handouts and "The Tao of Leadership", instructor facilitates discussion on how to motivate members of a team.

          Distance Learning

          1. The instructor will provide a discussion board prompt on the topic of leadership styles. Students will then identify and discuss the strengths and opportunities for growth of various leadership styles.

          Typical Out of Class Assignments

          Reading Assignments

          Based on reading of Roger Fischer and William Ury’s “Getting to Yes,” apply the ideas of negotiation and conflict resolution to your own relationships and leadership experiences. Afterwards in a reflection journal, analyze your own leadership experiences in relation to the negotiation and conflict resolutions strategies referenced by Fischer and Ury as well as nonverbal communication.

          Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

          After viewing Tom Krieglstein’s video “Dance Floor Theory,” the instructor will facilitate a discussion of dance floor theory and its potential for social integration of college students. Students will then strive to apply “Dance Floor Theory” to a Sierra College event, encouraging students to connect with each other. Lastly, students will reflect on their efforts, evaluating what worked well and what needs modifying.

          Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

          Perform a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threat) analysis of a group within an organization. Afterwards, each person will lead a discussion on their SWOT analysis in which they share their recommendations and suggestions.

          Required Materials

          • Dance Floor Theory
            • Author: Tom Krieglstein
            • Publisher: Swift Kick
            • Publication Date: 2015
            • Text Edition:
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER: Yes - Video
          • We Don’t Need Another Hero
            • Author: Joseph L. Badarocco Jr.
            • Publisher: Harvard Business Review
            • Publication Date: 2001
            • Text Edition:
            • Classic Textbook?:
            • OER Link:
            • OER: Yes - Article
          • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 30th Anniversary Edition (The Covey Habits Series)
            • Author: Stephen R. Covey
            • Publisher: Simon & Schuster
            • Publication Date: May 19, 2020
            • Text Edition: 30th Anniversary Edition
            • Classic Textbook?: Yes
            • OER Link:
            • OER:

          Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.