The Role of Practice in Operational Art w COL Andrew Morgado and Dr. Bruce Stanley
May 16, 2023
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COL Andrew Morgado and Dr. Bruce Stanley discuss the role of practice in operational art, highlighting the importance of history, doctrine, and theory, and how these elements shape practitioners. They provide insights into the future of the School of Advanced Military Studies and discuss the qualities they look for in potential students.
Developing a personal theory of operational art involves synthesizing history, theory, and doctrine to understand what to do and how to do it.
In operational art, there is a tension between the science and art of decision-making, requiring a balance of principles, history, creativity, and adaptability.
Experiences at SAMS lead to a transformative evolution in operational art comprehension through reflection on historical events, current realities, and expanding problem-solving horizons.
Practice at SAMS emphasizes application and synthesis of abstract concepts, fostering hands-on experience in problem-solving and preparing graduates for effective leadership in operational environments.
Deep dives
Building a Personal Theory of Operational Art
Developing a personal theory of operational art involves synthesizing history, theory, and doctrine to understand what to do and how to do it. By applying theoretical perspectives to historical examples, aligning with doctrine, and acknowledging that personal theory evolves over time based on experience, individuals can deepen their understanding.
Balancing Science and Art in Operational Art
In operational art, there is a tension between the science and art of decision-making. Understanding principles, history, and doctrine is vital, yet the application requires creativity, judgment, and adaptability. Bridging theory with practical skills involves recognizing the need to innovate and tailor solutions to unique challenges.
Evolution of Operational Art Understanding
Experiences at the School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS) lead to a transformative evolution in operational art comprehension. Through reflection on historical events, current realities, and expanding problem-solving horizons, students enhance their ability to navigate uncertainty, broadening their strategic perspective.
Continuous Practice and Application
Practice in operational art at SAMS encompasses practical exercises, discussions, and engagement with diverse seminar members. Emphasizing application and synthesis of abstract concepts, the curriculum fosters hands-on experience in problem-solving. The institution's focus on fostering competent, results-driven graduates highlights the importance of translating knowledge into actionable plans.
Adapting Curriculum for Relevance
SAMS strives to maintain relevance by adapting its curriculum to current scenarios and challenges faced by the military. Continuous feedback, periodic reviews, and responsiveness to changing strategic priorities ensure the institution's ability to contribute effectively to the operational force. By aligning with evolving operational needs, SAMS enhances its impact on preparing future military leaders.
Qualities Sought in SAMS Applicants
SAMS seeks applicants with curiosity, stamina, humility, and intellectual courage. Applicants are evaluated based on their ability to collaborate effectively, receive feedback, demonstrate humility and initiative, and exhibit a relentless pursuit of self-improvement. Proactive engagement in professional development pillars and a commitment to continuous learning are key attributes for successful candidates.
The Purpose of SAMs: Training Leaders
SAMs aims to equip officers with the skills needed to elevate their organizational contributions to the next level. Through a comprehensive curriculum, mentorship, and practical application of operational concepts, graduates are prepared to educate, lead, and influence positive change within their units. SAMs emphasizes the importance of converting knowledge into actionable strategies to achieve operational success.
Closing Remarks and Application Timeline
As SAMs continuously strives for improvement, applicants can expect the application process details to be released in July, targeting active component and joint application groups. The institution's commitment to excellence echoes the philosophy of continuous adaptation and self-assessment to deliver highly qualified graduates. By focusing on results-driven strategies and embracing transformative leadership qualities, SAMs prepares officers to thrive in complex operational environments.
Season 1 Episode 8 of the Operational Arch is the final episode in our limited series exploring the pillars of operational art. Our guests this week are COL Andrew Morgado, the Director of the School of Advanced Military Studies, and Dr. Bruce Stanley, the Director of the Advanced Military Studies Program. They explore the relationship between practice and experience, how history, doctrine, and theory inform the practitioner, and how operational art remains ever the same even as our understanding of it changes in light of our experiences. Moreover, they offer an inside look on what the future of SAMS holds and some insight into what they are looking for in future students of the program.
Below is a list of sources that provide some further reading for topics discussed in this episode.
Norman Maclean's "Young Men and Fire:" https://a.co/d/ehMQT03
MAJs Ksley Kurtz and Josh Bedingfield are the hosts for this episode. You can contact them at operationalarch@gmail.com with any questions you may have.
School of Advanced Military Studies: https://armyuniversity.edu/CGSC/SAMS/SAMS
Twitter: https://twitter.com/us_sams
Intro and Outro Music: "On and On" by Christian Bedingfield
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