Posted on Dec 8, 2013
LTC Jason Bartlett
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Seems unfair since all you really have to do is go to Wiki Answers and get the answers. The website seems like it is non-user friendly as well. 
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SSG Robert Burns
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To be honest, I learn best when I grab a regulation, sit down, and actually read the thing.  SSD leaves much to be desired in comparison to that in my opinion.
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SSG Cannon Crew Member
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
its just another online click click click click done, the Army should do more than create MORE boxes to check.
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SSG Robert Burns
SSG Robert Burns
>1 y
I think its pure laziness.  What on earth is NCODP for?  Why don't we just make a powerpoint test for everything we do?  Pretty soon, basic training will be computer based.
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SSG Cannon Crew Member
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
lol, thats what ive been saying for a few years now,,, privits, (yes, privits) will soon just go to the recruiter, take their online tests they take now for promotion, go to meps, take a few more online tests, hit CIF and then get shipped straight to their unit... (no, not really) but it sure seems that its heading that way.
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SSG Cannon Crew Member
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
not to mention everyone know of some glitch with the system,, its flawed, there is more to being a professional Soldier than just taking numerous classes online someone made to beef up their NCOER/ OER
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SSG Medical Logistics Specialist
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While I agree that all of the SSDs are not without their difficulties, I do believe they are great learning tools.&nbsp; Could they be employed differently....probably.&nbsp; I believe this should be training taught in a classroom as opposed to online.....with the possibility of Soldiers getting more out of it than just sitting in front of a computer screen clicking the NEXT button repetitively.<br>
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SSG Medical Logistics Specialist
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
The SSDs are such lengthy training requirements; if what SSG Moore is proposing is to be effective then the teachings of SSDs by Leaders to their subordinates can be broken down by their modules and in order for the Soldiers to advance to the next module they have to successfully test out of the previous module.

Sir, as long as we the Leaders manage our time effectively (something we should be doing when it comes to taking care of our Soldiers) then I believe face to face SSD training can work.
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SSG Platoon Sergeant/Emt Ncoic/Astp Primary Instructor
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
Sitting down with your soldiers does not work well in the reserves.
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SSG Platoon Sergeant/Emt Ncoic/Astp Primary Instructor
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
Sitting down with your soldiers does not work well in the reserves.
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SGT(P) Section Leader
SGT(P) (Join to see)
>1 y

Sitting down with Soldiers would be great, in an ideal world, free of SERE 100, AT-Level 1, GAT Survey's, SHARP training, EO training, MAL's, UMR's, LAYOUT's, and regular details like...Area Beautification, common areas, ASP guard, and DFAC register. The list goes on forever, because when they're not doing anything, YOU have things to do like counseling, fixing packets, prepping for training, inspecting for training prep, CQ, Staff Duty, and supervise all of the things that your guys are doing.

 

Even if you could get them all together in one place long enough to start this, you would have to travel to a place with multiple computers(library, computer lab, but good luck teaching above a whisper in there), internet that actually stays on for more than two minutes.

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1SG S3 Operations Ncoic
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Edited 11 y ago
When I get my monthly eligible Sgt promotion list it states if they don't meet the des/Mel requirement. That is a clear indication usually that they have not completed SSD 1. I have my platoon sergeants allot a Soldier time during work to complete their SSD. I have gone as far as setting a type of OML for Soldiers to have time to complete it. Most complete it in about 2 days. That's giving them about 4 hours a day to work on it. (Still need to get some work out of them also). If a Soldier doesn't want to take the time to do it, then they get it mentioned on their monthly performance counseling. If their not eligible for promotion because they have not completed it then they are counseled on why their not attending the promotion board. Another thing is no SSD 1 = no WLC. It is irritating to watch Soldiers not want to progress. If not to get promoted then to at least better themselves until time to ets. With that I agree with 1SG Hansen, Don't want to progress then impose a Bar. Makes the decision of telling a Soldier he doesn't make the cut to reup that much easier. Anyway, my two cents.
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SFC MLRS/HIMARS Crewmember
SFC (Join to see)
11 y
Fully agreed 1SG. We've scheduled time and provided a DL classroom for those soldiers who want to get it done and qualify for promotion. I don't think we had a single soldier pass up the opportunity, and if they do it certainly could be an indicator of their career intentions.
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SGT(P) Squad Leader
SGT(P) (Join to see)
11 y
I agree, but at the same time it distinguishes soldiers who are self motivated to advance in the ranks compared to those that do not.
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1SG S3 Operations Ncoic
1SG (Join to see)
11 y
True, but sometimes Soldiers need a push to better their careers. Make sure you get to know your Soldiers and what's going on with them. Sometimes they may have a family issue, marriage problems they might be embarrassed to share. If I hadn't been pushed into some requirements in my younger days I might not be where I am today. Of course some just don't care and nothing you do will change them. Try to find what gave them that bitter taste in their mouth and try to make them believers. With the draw downs commanders and first sergeants have this wonderful tool to not allow Soldiers to Re-up if they don't "make the grade".
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SFC S1 Personnel Ncoic
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No, they shouldn't be forced to complete the SSD commensurate with their rank, or future rank.  They do need to be counseled though as to the negative effects this will have upon their career in the Army, or lack there of.  Soldiers are adults, some more mature than others, regardless they need to be treated as such.  We are all responsible for our actions, good and bad.
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SGM Matthew Quick
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Yes...Soldiers should be forced to complete to be competitive for promotion to the next higher rank.
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SGM Matthew Quick
SGM Matthew Quick
11 y
I understand and can appreciate your passion.

Think back when we were young(er) Soldiers...did you always have enough discipline, self-drive, and motivation to complete everything on time?

There may have been times that I needed motivation in my career or times I really didn't understand the second and third order effects of something that I didn't see as important at a certain time.  We are older and wise now and can appreciate the importance of just about anything.

Soldiers need to be pushed...some more than others.  SSD should not be the sole determining factor for promotion recommendation.
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WO1 Information Technology Specialist
WO1 (Join to see)
11 y
I think SSD1 should be required and forced but after that if an NCO doesnt have the discipline, self-drive, and motivation to complete the required training they dont need to be considered for promotion.
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SSG Comsec Account Manager
SSG (Join to see)
11 y

No, SSD should not be forced. If a Soldier takes this job seriously, then they will do the work. If they dont, they get pushed out. I agree with putting the information on the counseling statement, but forcing an unmotivated, uncaring service member to be competetive for promotions in a time when the Army is looking for those very same unmotivated people to push out seems counter productive.

 

The Army is drawing down, we all know this. If our top leaders are saying identify them so we can get them out, then we should identify them. Let them be lazy and uncaring, they'll be shown the door while those who want to get promoted do the work. This process leaves the door open for better Soldiers to fill those positions.

 

A case in point, I have a Soldier who wants to go to the promotion board, says hes ready. But hes not competetive, barely breaks the minimum point requirement in an MOS that averages promotions at points 150-200 above what he owns. Should I send him to the board because he meets the TIS/TIG requirements? I dont think so. Hes been counseled, we worked out a plan together and hes working on that plan. The point being, if I can be motivated (and I was), then so can those behind us. And to hold those behind us to higher standards will only strengthen the force while we face uncertain operational requirements in the future.

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SGM (R) Antonio Brown
SGM (R) Antonio Brown
11 y
Months before the promotion board (MSG to SGM) convenes I received an email that showed me the number of MSGs(CMF 74) that were being looked at for promotion. Out of that number the email showed the number of MSGs that completed SSD IV. If the board were held on the day that I received the email 25-30% of the MSGs would not have had their records seen by the board members. This is at the Senior level. When do we stop holding the hands of individuals? I believe in motivating Soldiers, mentoring, coaching, teaching, and what ever else I have to do in order to have a Soldier live up to their potential. But we have to hold Soldiers, regardless of rank, accountable for their actions. I have spoken to my counterparts from other branches of service about SSD/promotions. These leaders have told me that they make the personnel aware of what must happen in order to advance. They make sure that the personnel have time and the tools needed to study and complete the DL lessons. If the personnel fail to meet the standard then the personnel are counseled for it. My counterparts made me aware that the personnel are not forced to complete DL lessons. I do not feel that Soldiers should be forced to complete SSD because those that fail to complete SSD are showing that they have no desire to advance.
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1SG Steven Stankovich
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SSD is the hot topic of the Army these days.  I received an email a few weeks ago that outlined the numbers for the MSGs who were ineligible to be considered for promotion for the upcoming SGM board because they have not completed SSD IV.  For my MOS alone, it was almost a third of the population who would not be looked at if the board convened today (it convenes this June).  So this is not just a Soldier issue, it is a leader issue also.



I do not believe in the "mandatory" piece though.  I, much like 1SG Hansen, believe that SSD and how it is linked to promotion and NCOES should be outlined in monthly/quarterly counseling's.  A plan of action should be developed to complete the required SSD.  If that plan of action is not followed, then that should be recorded.  Afford your Soldiers and NCOs the tools needed to be successful.  If they choose not to use them, then so be it.  The direction the Army is moving nowadays, natural selection and attrition will weed those folks out who do not want to complete what is required of them for advancement.

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1SG Steven Stankovich
1SG Steven Stankovich
11 y
Self Structured Development sir.  On-line training that is tied to selection for schooling and promotion on the enlisted side of the house.
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SPC Scott Dennin
SPC Scott Dennin
11 y
I am about to re-enlist into the National Guard. Is SSD something I should be prepared to do for promotion or does the NG not participate?
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SSG V. Michelle Woods
SSG V. Michelle Woods
11 y
SPC Dennin

I HIGHLY recommend you reference the link below. SSG Carl Beutler does the best job explaining SSD in the most basic yet accurate and brief terms. 
Trust me, you'll want to understand this new-ish Army training requirement before you reenlist. 


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SPC Scott Dennin
SPC Scott Dennin
11 y
SSG Woods,

Thanks for the info and the link.  
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1SG Alan Bailey
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I agree with we should not force them to complete SSD, when I was told that inorder to compete for SGM Academy I had to complete SSD4 or 5 which ever it is I did it took be about 2 or 3 days in Afghanistan. If the Soldier does not want to do it that is fine helps with the cutting of numbers that we have to get to. I agree with 1SG Hansen, lets use the BAR and Flags to matbe motivate them to complete it or they go do something else, some place else.
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SFC Michael Hasbun
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4
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I absolutely LOVE the new SSD's! My first look is in February, and as of now there are THOUSANDS of NCO's who couldn't be bothered to do it, thereby taking themselves out of the running for promotion.

Anything that helps my odds is great in my book!
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SSG Aircraft Powerplant Repairer
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Sir, it isn't very user friendly, nor is it browser friendly. Also a lot of good knowledge is stored in the program, but entirely too much information to absorb. In my opinion, it should be revised.
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SGM Matthew Quick
SGM Matthew Quick
>1 y
So, make it easier?

I understand the compatibility and technical issues, but TOO MUCH information?
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SSG Aircraft Powerplant Repairer
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
MSG, it's too much information compiled into one (probably expensive) program that doesn't work a lot of times. I believe a lot of that online training should be used with a more reliable platform. If not, take it back to hands on training.
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CPT Battalion Logistics Officer (S4)
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to quote a former 1SG who is an awesome leader
"Module 2 of SSD-4 complete, as an average Infantry First Sergeant I am now fully qualified to interact on the theatre and multi-national level with host foreign ambassadors and the Joint Chief of Staff. I am still waiting for the part that covers being a First Sergeant, you know like taking care of soldiers and running a company mission CCP? No sign of those things yet."

That pretty much sums up everything I've heard about SSD. 
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MSG Healthcare Specialist (Combat Medic)
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Haha, nice.
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SGM Matthew Quick
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SSD forces Soldiers to SELF educate...whether they decide to short-cut it (by Googling answers) or actually try to learn something, is on them and their career development.
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SFC Air Defense Enhanced Early Warning System Operator
SFC (Join to see)
>1 y
SSD is good for simple knowledge but how do we get troops to start thinking about application. I know that recently boards have shifted to a more scenario/situation focus. I would like to know what your ideas MSG, on this (in my mind) more vital professional development.
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CW2 Special Agent
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I know a SPC who is on SSD-4, and how is that logical? It should be available when you hit the respected rank that requires said SSD course to promote. To respond to your original question Sgt., it is too easy. Maybe an actual course with leaders/teachers could actually teach the lessons instead.
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SGM Matthew Quick
SGM Matthew Quick
>1 y
SSDs are no longer self-enrollment but auto-enrolled based on career milestones.
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CW2 Special Agent
CW2 (Join to see)
>1 y
Great to hear that MSG, thats how it should be!
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SFC Michael Hasbun
SFC Michael Hasbun
>1 y
Is there such thing as being too educated?
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SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL
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3
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Sir, it is a good genuine system, but with flaws e.g, it took me 7 months to complete my SSD because of the system being down and on going changes. I feel it is a newer SQT version, but never can replace the orginal system, because it dealt with MOS related task/skills.
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SFC Tac Nco
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>1 y
Agreed...I would like to see SSD more MOS related
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SFC Counterintelligence (CI) Agent
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3
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Sir, you asked how we feel about it.  

To put it lightly, I feel that the ALMS system is a dinosaur and needs a radical overhaul to be brought more into line with major educational venues with its layouts and course accessibility/function.  The current design is inefficient and not user-friendly.  This is a major problem.

To directly address the SSDs themselves?  I can see the underlying principle the Army is trying to achieve by implementing a "fill-in-the-gap" style self-teaching method, but the reality is, not many personnel gain anything from those slide shows.  I just completed SSD3 recently and I can honestly say about 75% of it already went out the window.

I don't know.  I think the program is a step in the right direction, but we need to review its implementation and what kind of content is actually being pushed out to the force.

10/10 would not take again.
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SSG Chuck H.
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I had compatibility issues depending upon which level I was working on. I did level I for knowledge and a refresher since I had already completed WLC before it was released. I use chrome routinely and didn't understand why it wasn't working so I tried IE and voila' it worked.
Since I had erroneously enrolled myself into level III initially I decided why not complete it as well while I had the chance. Since I had used IE for level I I naturally thought I would be required to use it also. Wrong again, I needed to use chrome to access things properly and IE was completely useless.
In overall terms yeah lots of user friendly issues with each level I took. I can't speak for level IV or V but I will presume they are not without issues of their own. I figure if *I* thought they were dry and lacked imagination what will a young Soldier half my age think?
As far as the content I learned and relearned several things while going through the lessons. And yes I actually went through them rather than cheating and checking the block. I figured all I'd be doing is cheating myself if I did it that way. My problem with this among other things is my own comprehension of the minor details. I am not normally able to spout off information off the top of my head about things I read about two years ago. Instead, I used the lessons and wrote down the references in my "book of cheat sheets" so I know where to go should the question arise. 
BLUF: All was not lost on me with SSD I or III but there are many tweaks that could be done to improve content as well as compatibility. 
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1SG Corrections Officer
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I am not a fan of the SSD in general, some of the subjects they cover, you will recieve more formal training for. (ie, as an E7 my SSD covered Casualty Assitance Officer, I dint need to waste time at home, because if I'm assied CAO duties, I will have to go through the official Course.  However, as a NG Soldier, it can be used as a tool, as those who want to learn and be promoted, they will complete this on thier own time.  That shows dedication and self improvement, virtues of a leader.
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SFC Air Defense Enhanced Early Warning System Operator
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>1 y
SFC Blagojevich, I understand your point, what would be the skills that you would like implemented in the SSD 3 instead?
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MSG Human Intelligence Collector
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It is a complete waste of time.&nbsp; The thing that kills me about the whole program is that someone at a very high level blessed off on this whole program.<br>
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MSG Career Counselor
MSG (Join to see)
>1 y
SFC Thomas.  What changes would you make to the course?  Or, would you scratch it all together.  If you scratch it, what would you replace it with?
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MSG Human Intelligence Collector
MSG (Join to see)
>1 y
I'd scrap it all together.  It has been a year and a half since I completed SSD IV, which I completed in 24 hours while on BDE staff duty.  The subject material covered was IMO, not terribly relevant to anything a senior NCO is likely to do and I've dumped all the information I "learned" (read, control F'ed, etc) in a matter of weeks.  I wouldn't replace SSD at all, even for junior enlisted.  The subject matter in SSD level one is general Army knowledge that should be taught in-house to joes when they arrive to their unit, or in WLC.  Our senior level NCOs who are at the highest level today didn't have to take these courses to advance, and I don't think they are any worse off for it.

SSD was the answer to a question no one was asking.

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1SG Corrections Officer
1SG (Join to see)
11 y
I'm with you Battle! SSD is a waste of time.
You will only learn what they covered n SSD4 is thru doing it. And I your a TDG (Traditional Drilling Guardsmen)or a TPU Soldier, your not using ATTRS or DTS , etc. I am familiar with everything here and that's because my wife is AGR (BN S-3) and I have spent a few yrs on ADOS orders. Some Lt or CPT probably needed a bullet comment for their OER and came up with this crap.
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1SG(P) First Sergeant
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Edited >1 y ago
I think of SSD as being the latest block to check.  I don't need to know how many days after leave I may request a band.  SSD 4 appeared to be a lot of stuff, like D&C, that if I really needed to know it, I could reference it.  Do I  need a quiz on how to run a funeral?  Is that what's going to make me an effective war fighter?
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SSG Aircraft Powertrain Repairer
SSG (Join to see)
11 y
Your right and the problem is I enrolled years ago in its infancy and am now in middle of SSD 4 what will I gain if I never work with host nations, FST's, DMETL's, JST's, Staff Planners, or even basic governemental level interaction.  From what I have seen so far its allot of Washington politics classes and etiquette(i think i spelled wrong); to boot most of the courses outlined will only present itself in a useful fashion if I am assigned a position that would allow me to interact with dignitaries or be involved with war planning and peace keeping missions.  This course really seems geared toward Division level and above NCO/Officers.
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LTC Latin Teacher
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2
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I can only speak to A) My Soldiers' experience, and B) my experience with DL for my Captain's Career Course. 

Army DL is crap. Plain and simple. On top of that, it's not the best conduit to learn the information. The programs rarely work efficiently, and the "help" that is out there hasn't been very helpful...for both me and those with whom I've talked about this. 

 I understand that's all about saving money, and I don't hate the Army for that. However, don't pee on my leg, and tell me it's raining. The change wasn't for my benefit; it was for their benefit. 
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SSG V. Michelle Woods
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My biggest issue with SSD are the typos and misspelled words. It may seem minute but it blows my mind these official, DA required courses were published without being proofread. 
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