Introduction to Intelligence Analysis

Introduction to Intelligence Analysis is a two-level e-learning course, designed to equip aspiring and inexperienced analysts, as well as other interested investigative and security professionals, with the knowledge and skills required to undertake intelligence analysis tasks, and to better understand intelligence analysis products when encountered or assigned.

This course provides a rich and interesting opportunity to explore the key concepts and intellectual foundations which inform intelligence analysis activity.  Students will develop awareness of, and gain experience in, using common tools and methodologies to conduct analysis assignments, as well as learn how to fashion one’s insights and ideas in a way that communicates effectively to clients and other intelligence consumers.  A variety of learning activities, practical assignments, and quizzes are used to reinforce key concepts.

Level 1

The first level of this course represents an introduction to the basics of intelligence analysis – explaining core concepts and underlying processes, and providing practical instruction on improved ways of thinking, basic analytic techniques, and effective communication of analytic findings to clients and consumers.

• Intelligence and intelligence analysis explained
• Critical thinking skills
• Direction and tasking of intelligence activities
• Data collection and planning
• Data evaluation, collation, and processing
• Introduction to analysis and analytic techniques
• Data visualization methods
• Exploring structured analytic techniques
• Communicating intelligence findings

Level 2

Level 2 lessons represent an expansive and more in-depth exploration of the issues introduced in Level 1. Students are provided opportunities to think about the various functional and organizational contexts in which intelligence analysis might be productively used, consider lessons derived from intelligence failures, develop hands-on familiarity with a variety of advanced analytic techniques, and to refine their report writing skills.

• Intelligence and intelligence analysis applications – exploring sectoral differences
• Improving intelligence analysis – learning from intelligence failures
• Pattern analysis techniques
• Analysis of competing hypotheses
• Imaginative thinking tools
• Diagnostic analytic tools
• Analytic challenge techniques
• Threat analysis and assessment techniques
• Building analytic writing skills
• Putting it all together – becoming an effective analyst