Enhancing Police Training and Education through Learning Theory

• In Event: Police Education and Training

Abstract

Effective training and education plays a critical role in preparing police and law enforcement professionals to respond to the evolving nature of crime. Social, cultural, political, legal, economic, and technological changes place constant demands upon police and law enforcement to keep current and ahead of the learning curve; thus, underscoring the importance that trainers and educators play within the greater realm of the criminal justice system.

Notwithstanding the knowledge, expertise, and experience that professional trainers and educators possess in their respective fields, few may possess any advanced knowledge or understanding of learning theory and practice. Not only can trainers and educators enhance their pedagogical effectiveness, but by understanding the idiosyncratic nature of how and why individuals learn, they can adapt instructional methodology to the nature of their discipline and audience, thus advancing their role, responsibility, and efficacy as instructors.

Author

• Robert F. Vodde, Fairleigh Dickinson University