: Posted by Katherine Dedul in GM Course & Exam

: We've had a lot of discussion regarding the exam, do we have anyone who has a beef with some of the content of the actual course itself? Additions, subtractions, the like?
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: For instance, I do find some paragraphs particularly wordy. For example, in the second page of the course(What is a GM?) there's a discussion of the chain of command:
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: "While we are on the topic of professionalism, the chain of command needs to be discussed. In a perfect world everyone would get along, each day would be filled with sunshine and your work would be applauded by the newest ensign all the way to the most venerated admiral. Unfortunately life isn't like that, STF is no different, chances are pretty good that you’re going to have a problem with one of your GM assignments. Maybe a player keeps writing counteractive posts. Maybe the Captain isn't holding up his end. There may be a personality clash. Whatever the problem, always remember to follow the chain of command, start with the CO. If the problem can't be rectified or the CO is the problem then go to the Fleet Commander. If you still can't get resolution you can approach the GM Director for input. The final step after trying all these avenues is to talk to the President, it's doubtful you'll ever get this far. Ensuring you have a good rapport with the CO should prevent ever needing this advice. Communicate with the CO regularly, ask their advice, they know the crew better than you do. Talk to the players themselves, after all this is a game and we are all supposed to be having fun. You wouldn't run to the School Principal every time someone upset you, don't do it here."
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: I'll agree, the chain of command is very important to discuss, but do we need a paragraph of this size to do it? Generally most people who meet the OGRE requirements have experience with the chain of command and know why it's there, they just need to be introduced to the slightly different GM chain of command from the standard player one.
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: Personally I think something more simplified as: GM>CO>FComm>GM Director>President, or even:
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: "Whatever your problem, start with your CO, if that doesn't resolve the problem, move onto the Fleet Commander, then up to the GM Director and finally to the president, that is the chain of command for a GM. Building a good rapport with your CO and your crew should prevent you ever having to use this chain though."
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: Kat

I'll try and take a detailed look at the course material on the 2nd, however I've resisted doing so since I am not an experienced GM here, and I think opinions on that portion might be best from people more experienced. I've never had a problem giving out peanut gallery type commentary though, so I'll give it a shot if I have time on the 2nd. :)

Jen