NCJ Number
203070
Journal
The Law Enforcement Trainer Volume: 17 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2002 Pages: 20-23
Date Published
September 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article considers the use of case studies as an innovative method of police training.
Abstract
The case study method of teaching is an under-utilized training resource in law enforcement. There is evidence from different professions, such as medicine and business, that the case study method of teaching is effective. Many factors have conspired to keep the case study method in the margins of police training; factors such as program availability, human resources, and State and Federal training mandates. The development of case study training modules is a difficult task that requires careful consideration of goals and objectives. The relevance of the case study method and the drawbacks of using this method for police training purposes are discussed. The article illustrates the application of the case study method in police training by offering examples of how one such training module was designed and implemented. The article concludes by explaining that the case study method of teaching is different because it promotes a student-centered model of instruction.