The original course emphasized instruction in basic police skills, use of rating forms, and standard evaluation procedures; however, it was apparent that FTOs did not have adequate instructional skills, were not uniformly trained in using verbal and written communications, and were not using standard evaluation guidelines properly when rating a recruit's daily performance. The department modified its certification course to fit its philosophy of performance- oriented training. The topics of instruction chosen for the new curriculum included the role of the FTO, principles of communication, learning, lesson planning, methods of instruction, overriding a new officer, use of the Field Training and Standard Evaluation Guidelines, and student evaluations. The 5-day course was designed to produce FTOs who could serve as an instructor and evaluator as well as a proper role model for trainees.