The Leadership Decision Making Program uses theories and evidence from psychology, behavioral economics, and neuroscience to teach leaders how to answer tough questions, improve the accuracy of their estimates, and structure effective negotiations. It also helps leaders design better decision environments by providing tools to reduce bias and inaccuracy, which can help make organizations smarter. This program gives participants the opportunity to examine both the scientific basis and the practical aspects of judgment and decision making and learn how to build lasting leadership skills that incorporate this knowledge. Topics covered include communicating risk effectively, designing optimal decision environments, reducing biases, and negotiating effectively. The program also includes an opportunity for self-assessment in the Harvard Decision Science Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility featuring cutting-edge technologies that enable researchers to analyze the link between human physiology and decision-making behaviors. Using the Laboratory, participants learn more about their own biases, their attitudes toward risk, their ability to regulate emotions, and other key personal insights that can sharpen decision-making.
Website: https://www.hks.harvard.edu/educational-programs/executive-education/leadership-decision-making
SLD Program Structure Category
Supplemental Course
Target Population(s)
Colonels (O-6), AD, AFR, and ANG
Provider
Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government
Location
Virtual
Length and Frequency
6 days
3 sessions per year (January, June, and September; Air Force participation varies)
Funding
- HAF-funded expenses: Course tuition (includes program materials and some meals).
- Unit-funded expenses: Partial per diem (meals not included in tuition), travel to/from course, ground transportation, miscellaneous expenses.
Pre-Coursework and Special Requirements
Nominees must submit an online application, which includes essay questions. The endorsement letter requirement is waived for Air Force applicants.