The Last Place on Earth

References

Huntford, R. (2007). The last place on Earth. Random House LLC.

Gardner, R. (2012). Are you an Amundsen or Scott? Image retrieved from www.google.com/search?q=images+of+amundsen&safe=active&rlz=1C1QJDB_enUS604&espv=2&biw=643&source=Inms&tbm=isch&sa=x8

This image of Amundsen with the dogs has many symbolic representations of the leadership style of Amundsen.

First, unlike the British party led by Scott with new motorized equipment that served to be faulty, Amundsen's preparations relied on proven best strategies for successful movement in artic tempatures.

Secondly, the dogs represent difficult decisions based on tough sacrifices for the health and welfare of the men.

“I don’t want to say anything before I accomplish

something” (Huntford, p. 76).

"Sott wanted to be a hero; Amundsen merely wanted to get to the Pole." (Huntford, p. 478).

An interesting comparison of

Amundsen and Scott

Fundamental Elements

of Advice

Scott being the weaker leader of the two pioneers, is who my group would offer the following advise to:

• Plan his mission with a human resource frame of mind that focused on acquiring skills that would enable success
• Build trust among his party
• Lead by example and learn from each other's mistakes

"The last place on Earth" demonstrates the importance of a strong vision to make fundamental and lasting change.

• Similar to using data to drive instruction Amundsen made change by using the feedback of his surroundings and crew to drive his decisions
• Amundsen listens to his team and when appropriate includes all stakeholders in the decision making process
• Amundsen was able to make fundamental change to the destination by communicating a strong vision and gaining the support of the crew

Human Resources Frame

Amundsen operated from a Human Resource Frame as he was very passionate about motivating his team to achieve one goal. As our group responses are collated, it is evident that Amundsen is the dominant protagonist in The Last Place On Earth. Some of Amundsen's examples of the Human Resource Frame are:

• He chose people that satisfied the organizational needs
• He recruited the talent and energy which they needed to succeed
• He expresses that he would have given up any honor or money if he could have saved Scott
• “We are all captains; we are all crew.” Amundsen believed in creating leaders amongst his team rather than creating followers.

Amundsen's ability to lead positive

change demonstrated his understanding of his personal frame and the management of the his crew's strengths and weaknesses. Reflecting on the group responses here a few thoughts about Amundsen's organizational framing.

Personal Implications

• Ability to change frame position from symbolic to human resource
• Ability to adopt new areas of interest with passion and meaning
• Learn from our mistakes - especially as educators
• Love what you do and communicate that passion
• Recruit a team that support each other's strengths and weaknesses

Amundsen displayed qualities of leadership that are important to not only the success of a mission but the health and well being of the people. Reflecting on the group responses the following characteristics were discussed.

• Vision
• Humble
• A focus on destiny
• Purpose in life
• Using our God given talents
• Determination
• Passion

The Last Place on Earth

A Novel by Roland Huntford

EDGR 627 Concordia University

Presented by Stephanie Guerrero & David Williams