NCJ Number
95063
Journal
Journal of Police Science Volume: 12 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1984) Pages: 251-259
Date Published
1984
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Although the number of hours devoted to police recruit training has increased greatly over the past 30 years, the percentage of time spent on practical and academic training has remained virtually unchanged.
Abstract
Study data from 28 urban police departments show the major training change has been toward more thoughtful and professional delivery of police services. Thus, the firearms curriculum has changed from an emphasis on the mechanics and accuracy of firearms use to a focus on the legal, ethical, and even psychological issues involved. In the academic part of the training, the most striking addition is the emphasis on constitutional issues and citizen rights. Police training still lacks adequate attention to basic writing skills. New police officers are, however, being offered academic counseling, instruction in the development of proper study habits, and spouse counseling. Training techniques now include role playing, situation simulation, and field assignments using more effective supervision and feedback. Data tables and a list of seven references are supplied. (Author summary modified)