NCJ Number
151546
Journal
Trainer Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Dated: (Summer/Fall 1994) Pages: 2-10
Date Published
1994
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The Missoula, Montana, Police Department has developed a state-of-the-art program to provide new police recruits with the best training possible.
Abstract
The field training officer (FTO) program runs 14 weeks. Trainees spend 3 weeks in each of first three phases and 2 weeks in the final phase. The program's Weekly Training Guide has been changed; basic tasks are covered at the beginning of training, while more complex tasks are covered as training advances. A self-study/evaluation component has also been added in which trainees are assigned topics to study on their own. The program's Daily Observation Report uses a seven-point rating system. While FTO's are involved in training, they are monetarily compensated. The Missoula Police Department envisions that the FTO program will constantly evolve as efforts are made to improve and change the program to meet new demands and to reflect current instructional methods and concepts. A Field Training Officer Board has been established to facilitate program evaluation. Scheduling for new recruit training is discussed, as well as FTO program administration. 7 photographs