NCJ Number
87268
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 55 Issue: 4 Dated: (October-December 1982) Pages: 360-364
Date Published
1982
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article presents results from an evaluation of a 10-week initial training course for police recruits in England and Wales, and implications are drawn for training.
Abstract
The evaluation used a detailed questionnaire administered to 1,000 police probationers with a minimum of 18 months of service in 13 forces. A portion of the survey was completed by the probationer's supervising sergeant. The primary purpose of the survey was to determine whether and to what extent the objectives of the course were being met. Each probationer was queried about how well he/she had been provided with minimum skills and knowledge required for operational duties and firm basis for further inservice training in a number of specified areas. The sergeants were asked to rate each probationer on learning and practical abilities. The findings indicated the following inadequacies in key knowledge and skill areas: (1) ignorance about how to proceed in proving offenses, (2) insufficient knowledge of the rules of evidence and how they apply in concrete situations, (3) poor transfer of learning about the law in general, (4) poor understanding of the function of statements of evidence and reports, and (5) an inability to write in logical sequence. The sergeants particularly noted arrogance and intolerance in the probationers' dealings with the public as well as a defensive aggressiveness. The findings suggest that a mixed approach to learning, involving study projects, less spoon feeding, and more self-help in breaking down legal and procedural paragraphs into one's own learning objectives during an advanced phase of an initial course could correct some of the weaknesses found. Further, there should be more interpersonal skills training using controlled exercises and clear behavioral objectives.