NCJ Number
203072
Journal
The Law Enforcement Trainer Volume: 17 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2002 Pages: 28-32
Date Published
September 2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the advantages of simulation training for emergency first responders.
Abstract
Simulation training offers many advantages; it is affordable, enjoyable, and has been shown to be an effective teaching tool for those who must engage in quick decisionmaking. The article describes the simulation training offered by the Baltimore Police Department in order to show how such training is designed and implemented. The creation of simulation training takes careful thought and design, with attention not only to subject matter but also to safety, adaptability, and portability. The article describes Baltimore’s simulation training to prepare managers and commanders with the skills they need to resolve hostage and Hazmat situations. The fundamental principles of conflict simulation design as presented in the book, The Art of Wargaming, are discussed, as is the rank ordering of student-participants following completion of the training simulation. If simulations are properly designed, students learn through hands-on experiences and their job performance in the field is improved.