NCJ Number
110824
Date Published
1985
Length
59 pages
Annotation
This report presents the methodology, findings, and recommendations from a training needs assessment of the San Francisco Sheriff's Department.
Abstract
The study's data-collection activities included the development of training goals and concepts by the Standards and Training for Corrections Advisory Committee, a survey of employee perceptions of current training activities and future training needs, and an inventory of available training programs and resources. Findings indicate the department's current training activities exceed the standards set by the advisory committee. The department must decide whether it will meet the more demanding standards of employee training expectations tailored to the effective performance of their tasks. Several elements crucial to the development of a more effective training program are already in place. The existing workforce is mature and well-educated, and staff generally view their employment as a career rather than stepping stone to more prestigious positions. The department also has a competent training staff committed to quality training activities. These positive elements are supplemented with sufficient financial, programmatic, and technical resources. The missing component is a departmental commitment to the training process. Training should be viewed as an essential departmental responsibility which contributes significantly to personal, professional, and organizational growth. Appendixes contain training goals and concepts, questionnaire and interview documents, and training-related documents. 14 tables.