NCJ Number
173170
Journal
Policing Volume: 21 Issue: 1 Dated: 1998 Pages: 54-79
Date Published
1998
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This paper presents the results of the author's assessment of the curriculum and instruction at the University Academy, a police academy in Ohio, based on her work as a participant- observer.
Abstract
The description of the basic academy focuses on training duration, entrance requirements, class make-up, environment, instruction, and stress. A review of knowledge learning addresses civil liability, ethics, special needs groups, public relations/cultural diversity, and examinations. An overview of skill training considers firearms training, self-defense, physical training, and communication skills. An overview of hazardous-materials training is also provided, along with attitude training. The study concludes that overall the results of this study show that this particular police academy is providing the information and skills training required to prepare recruits to be police officers. The academy is lacking, however, in its ability to transmit the proper attitudes for new police officers. There remains an obvious element of sexism and an element of elitism on the part of some instructors, which is made obvious to the recruits. There are a few areas not included in the training, specifically ethics and helping the elderly or victims of crime. Also, no night training is provided. The addition of female and minority instructors may help create change. Possible changes in future police academy training are discussed. 7 tables and 72 references