Overview
The Direct Leadership Course is designed for the Army Civilian leader who exercises direct leadership to effectively lead and care for teams. Per AR 350-1, the Direct Leadership Course is required for supervisors in grades GS 5–9 or equivalent.
This course teaches students to solve problems, think critically, and understand basic Army problem solving methodology; communicate effectively by speaking and writing clearly, concisely, and persuasively; understand and apply elements of effective leader interpersonal skills; understand and apply basic leadership principles to effectively lead small teams; and embrace personal and professional development for self, and subordinates, as part of the requirement for Army service.
The Direct Leadership Course is a 100% self-paced, online learning experience. The suggested completion method is to dedicate up to three weeks of time in a distraction free space. Realizing that is not always possible, students will have 180 days to complete the course. The resident and virtual classes were discontinued beginning in FY23.
Subjects Covered
- Learning Styles Preferences
- Critical Thinking
- Army Problem Solving
- Communication
- Army Writing
- Briefing and Public Speaking
- Influential Feedback
- The Art of Leadership
- Develop Army Civilian Professionals
- Team Building
- Managing Conflict
- Individual and Team Development
- Ethical Reasoning
- Supervisor Responsibilities
Eligibility
- Army Civilians in permanent appointments in grades GS 1–9 or equivalent.
- Military supervisors of Army Civilians, DoD and other Federal agency leaders, and term and temporary Army Civilians.
- Army Appropriated Fund (AF), Non-appropriated Fund (NAF), Wage Grade (WG), Local National (LN) personnel.
Prerequisites
Additional Information
- Army Civilians must have a current performance rating of successful or above and be in good conduct standing.
Accessing the Course
View our Application Process guide for application instructions. Follow any instructions received in system-generated emails. The course is delivered through ATIS Learning and requires a CAC-enabled computer to access all module exams.