Structured Self Development (SSD): Does it meet the intent it was designed for OR is it another form of "death by powerpoint"?

SFC Toby Northen Prior to retirement, I completed SSD IV. The modules were arduous, the material good, but not always well presented, and the exams were challenging. I don't agree with the requirement of SSD for promotion if we are to maintain the current NCOES system. If this is a replacement for the "common core" phase of NCOESs then perhaps, but the SSD courses should be shortened. I read that SSD was also replacing the 1SG course. Personally, I never agreed this was not an NCOES course and I do not agree with it being discontinued.

Death by Good Idea Fairy.

I personally think that the SSD's should not have replaced the common core. I think it should have been in addition to, the common core training. Now, I know or at least I think I know, its one of the many ways the Army is attempting to save money. If the Soldier actually had to go to the Common Core phase of an NCOES school, the Army will be spending money on the common core portion of that particular school. Whereas, now the SSD's is online all the Soldier have to do sign up log in and start the course. Now, here's the dilemma, how many Soldiers are actually learning anything from the SSD's? I'm pretty sure Soldiers are finding other ways of actually getting the answers to the test, without having to pay any attention to the online material. Whereas, if they were in a class, they could ask and answer questions pertaining to the different subjects petaining to common core. Now, when it comes to Army Soldiers, it is very important that we educate each other properly. Given the fact that some of us has been promoted very quickly through the ranks. We (The Army as a whole) need to stop and take a real good look at the dynamic of ranks, and decide what would be the BEST way of teaching our Soldiers of today, not the most cost efficient way.