Reflection Essay: INT 511 Advanced Analytical Methods

Rachael Riggs

National American University

Henley-Putnam School of Strategic Security

Amie Bowman

12, 2020

Reflection Essay: INT 511 Advanced Analytical Methods

The Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) for INT 511 Advanced Analytical Methods include the following five objectives:

1. Discover, analyze, and organize various sources that pertain to the security industry and use those sources to achieve actionable outcomes.

This CLO shows evidence of the ability to research proficiently and translate the information findings while integrating information literacy skills. This skill was introduced in module 2 and accomplished in module 5. This Course Learning Outcome was put into action by analyzing sources as done in discussion 2.1 also, in discussion 2.2, when we discussed Quantitative analysis. This CLO was achieved by putting our findings into action and creating a finished written intelligence product in assignment 5.1 and presenting the intelligence briefing for assignment 5.2.

1. Analyze emerging threats, issues, or challenges using the learned structured analytical techniques.

This CLO intends to enhance one's conceptual skills to identify potential risks and assess different prevention options, deterrent, or alternative actions. Through the course, abstract reasoning and specialized knowledge enhance. In Discussion 3.1, we summarized two techniques, and in discussion 3.2, we provided a Qualitative analysis. These discussions helped me to understand structured analytical techniques and analyze issues. We then used this understanding to finish our final intelligence product and briefing in assignments 5.1 and 5.2.

1. Use advanced Qualitative or Quantitative methods, evaluate intelligence issues, threats, or challenges.

To achieve the above objectives, Demonstrating competency in the engagement of issues in the strategic security industry was necessary. The course assignments helped me to acquire skills in critical thinking, applied learning, and specialized knowledge. Discussion 1.2, 2.1,3.1, and 3.2, as well as exercises 4.1, 4.2, and assignments 5.1 and 5.2, helped develop these skills.

1. Show an understanding of the ability to explain analysis findings through intelligence products while demonstrating leadership.

I obtained the goals outlined by showing strategic management leadership competencies to promote professional security, counterterrorism, intelligence, national protection, and global understanding. Civic learning, applied learning, and specialized skills will be enhanced at the closing of the course. Summarizing techniques as done in sections 3.1 and assignments 5.1 and 5.2 help develop these competencies.

1. Fully understand and utilize the necessary writing skills in advanced intelligence analysis and its products.

This CLO's outcome is acquiring the skills that support effective communication, critical thinking, and analysis in the strategic security environment. Skills obtained include communication, specialized skills, and critical thinking. Discussion 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.2, 5.1, and assignments 5.1 and 5.2 all help develop the course learning outcome's necessary skills.

This class has given me a strong understanding of the various Structured Analytical Techniques. I have learned specialized skills and knowledge, communication, critical thinking skills, strategic management and leadership, civic and applied learning, and research methods throughout this course. This class has helped me gain a more robust understanding of obtaining credible sources, analyzing information, and applying this knowledge to a finished intelligence product.

One thing that I know I gained a much stronger knowledge of is structured analytical techniques. In every module throughout the course, I gained a deeper understanding of the different methods. I realized I had learned the techniques when I started using them outside of the classroom. I have used brainstorming, mind mapping, ACH analysis, and Key Judgments to benefit my personal life. Because of this, I know I have learned this information and have a good understanding of this.

I realized in this course that once you fall off track, it is not easy to get yourself caught back up. I learned that missing a discussion or a reading assignment can make things difficult. The projects would have been simpler had I stayed on target. In the future, I know I will not allow myself to get behind, no matter the circumstances. I have learned how important it is to keep my personal life separate from my responsibilities.

Learning the concepts and skills in the Course Learning Outcome is essential to my education and my future career. This knowledge is critical to the intelligence field. An employer will benefit significantly by having an employee with a strong understanding of the concepts and skills obtained. The expertise I have gained will make me a more valuable employee than I would have been before the course, which is why I find this learning invaluable.

Knowing what I now know, I intend to further my knowledge in analysis and structured analytical techniques. I will use this course as a learning experience in the effects of allowing personal issues to interfere with my work and responsibilities. Moving forward, I will use this as motivation to work harder and continue to advance my knowledge of intelligence analysis and other intelligence studies.

References

Heuer, R. J. (1999). Psychology of Intelligence Analysis. Washington DC.

Heuer, R. J. (2015). Structured Analytical Techniques: for intelligence analysis (Second Edition). Los Angeles: CQ Press & Sage.

US Government. (2009, March). A Tradecraft Primer: Structured Analytic Techniques for Improving Intelligence Analysis. Retrieved from CIA.gov: https://www.cia.gov/library/center-for-the-study-of-intelligence/csi-publications/books-and-monographs/Tradecraft%20Primer-apr09.pdf