Introduction to Leadership Studies
Course Description
AGED 260 is a leadership education course where students study various theories of leadership development. In this course, students learn theories and models of the leadership process to synthesize a personal philosophy of leadership. From that personal philosophy of leadership, students prepare a plan of integrated experiential activities to develop leadership skills during their collegiate experience. Students are also challenged to think about a "world view" of leadership with consideration given to diverse individuals, groups and communities. Ethical aspects of leadership processes and the impact of ethics on outcomes of leadership are also examined in this course. This course serves as the foundation for students in the Agricultural Leadership Education option as well as for all students pursuing an interdisciplinary leadership concentration.
Upon completion of Ag Ed 260, students will be able to:
- Analyze leadership theories, models of leadership development and leadership profiles of self and others.
- Examine theories of motivation and their impact on leadership processes.
- Examine factors impacting personal productivity and develop a time management system reflecting personal goals and values.
- Conduct a self-assessment of personal qualities related to leadership development.
- Develop a personal definition of what it means to lead and the role of personal responsibility in leadership.
- Write a personal development plan (PDP) for acquiring competencies which will demonstrate effective leadership skills in the university and larger community.
- Enhance developmental and interpersonal skills for more effective leadership.
- Gain an awareness of how to work with diverse individuals, groups and communities.
- Examine ethical aspects of leadership processes or situations and projected outcomes.
- Define ethical components of a personally constructed leadership philosophy.
- Explore the changing roles of leadership and followership in organizational contexts.
- Design a portfolio that demonstrates and integrates classroom learning, field leadership experiences and personal reflections which will become an evolving resource in the development of a personal leadership philosophy.
Credit Hours: 3 hours
