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Using Simulations as a Training Tool

NCJ Number
192754
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 68 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2001 Pages: 44-46
Author(s)
Roger Mason
Editor(s)
Charles E. Higginbotham
Date Published
November 2001
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article examines the use of simulation training to train supervisors to successfully manage new types of critical incidents, such as terrorism.
Abstract
Due to an increase in complex problems involving critical incident response, such as terrorism and multiple school assailants, today’s police supervisors are faced with new challenges requiring the mobilization of large resources and assets. Training becomes expensive, as well as the increased stress on manpower and equipment needed to train a small number of supervisors. To address this issue, the Burbank California Police Department experimented with a military technique using dynamic simulations. A simulation is a compressed model of an actual event allowing supervisors the ability to understand the entire incident. The benefits of simulation training include: (1) the potential benefit of developing new tactical doctrines; (2) the validation of current and future tactical doctrines; (3) allowing the participants to develop skills and rehearse tactics otherwise impossible to duplicate in standard training sessions; (4) the ability to be organized to include multiple training factors; and (5) the use of limited support resources, including manpower. The most common simulation design is a reactive, multi-turn simulation which is a series of moves between two groups of participants. The simulation should consist of groups taking turns over a defined period of time. To design a simulation, several points must be kept in mind. First, the five key components of training simulation are the purpose, the setting, the participants, the time, and the rules. The setting for the simulation must be determined and modeled. The simulation must contain the particular participants that will be important in duplicating a real event. A decision must be made on the length of time your simulation will represent. The final point is the definition of some simple basic rules. Training simulations are viewed as an effective and cost-effective approach to training police officers.