Resources
Read/review the following resources for this activity:

• Textbook: Chapters 5, 6
• Lecture 1: Collection
• Lecture 2: Analysis – Part 1
• Lecture 3: Analysis – Part 2
• Link (PDF): U.S. Government. A tradecraft primer
• Link (website): Covert Action: A systems approach Wood

Introduction
While gathering intelligence is key in the process, the analysis of the data is what provides the players with the answers as to how to use the material.

Initial Post
Using a current issue in intelligence you find in the news or open source material from the library, what training is needed and how would you analyze that issue? Consider what is required to understand the intelligence needed, how to gather the intelligence, and finally, how to analyze the information.

Secondary Posts
Read postings provided by your instructor or fellow students. Read and respond to the conclusions drawn by your classmates. Remember to read the feedback to your own major postings and reply throughout the week.

Writing Requirements

• In addition to one initial post, respond to at least two peers.
• Initial Post Length: minimum of 250 words
• Secondary Post Length: minimum of 200 words per post
• Using APA format, provide at least one citation with corresponding references page and use appropriate in-text citation(s) referring to the academic concept for the initial post.

Grading and Assessment
Meeting the minimum number of posting does not guarantee an A; you must present an in-depth discussion of high quality, integrate sources to support your assertions, and refer to peers’ comments in your secondary posts to build on concepts.

This activity will be graded using the Discussion Forum Grading Rubric.

Learning Outcome(s): 1, 3, 4, 5
1.   Assess the theoretical effectiveness of intelligence and covert action with regard to analyzing governmental structure and national security policy.
3.   Define the U.S. Intelligence Community.
4.   List the different kinds of intelligence and examine how it is gathered.
5.   Examine the history and structure of U.S. intelligence.