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    While there are exceptions to all generalizations, most successful units
I have observed in my 40+ years in Scouting have had trained leaders, many of
whom not only completed the basic training requirements, but also
supplemental and advanced training. I have found through the years that I
have learned something new anytime I attended a training, whether as a
participant or a trainer.
    On the negative side most failing units were run by leaders who had
either not completed training or had attended but had a very negative
attitude toward training. As a trainer I have come to realize that people
take away from a training what they are willing to take away. If someone
attends because they "have to" they often will not be in a receptive mood and
will be thinking about everything but the material being presented.
    Those of us trying to assist units to be successful, both commissioners
and other Scouters, need to take into account the human relations factors
involved in having participants have a successful training experience. How we
get someone to attend can be as important as having them attend.
    While the above two paragraphs may make it seem like I am against
mandatory training requirements, this is not so. Clearly stated expectations
of what is expected of new leaders, at the time they are recruited, go a long
way toward making training seem a normal part of their responsibilities, not
an added imposition. We also need to use the appropriate training for the
situation. Most training can be completed in three ways: formal group
training, self study, and personal coaching. Formal training is usually the
most effective because it provides the benefits of group interaction and
discussion. In situations such as the Direct Service Council where there are
few opportunities for group training, self study and personal coaching are
appropriate substitutes. These methods are also appropriate for situations
where work schedules are a problem. Returning leaders also can benefit from
self study and personal coaching to bring them up-to-date on changes in the
program.
    Coming changes in training curriculum will enable us to better tailor our
training to the needs of the recipients. The new training courses are
designed to be modular and provide needed information and skills when needed
for specific Scouting jobs.
    An expectation to complete basic training requirements within, 6 months
for Cub Scout leaders, or one year for Boy Scout leaders (based on frequency
that training is usually offered) if the requirement is stated up front when
they are recruited, should help us get training to leaders before they become
convinced they know it all and don't need training. Getting leaders to basic
training after they complete first year is very hard. Most have developed
some understanding of how to operate a Troop or Den, however they may have
missed the methods that have made Scouting successful over the years.
    We need to deal with individuals as such, and apply common sense to
applying any standard, however having standards is important to success in
any endeavor.

Clay Converse
Asst. District Commissioner, Taughannock District
Council Cub Scout Camping Chairman
Baden Powell Council, Vestal NY

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