Training is designed to change an officer’s behavior, provide alternative solutions to problems, and persuade an officer to assume the values and ideals of the department. It is an educational process that begins with police academy training, followed by field training with an experienced officer, and is complemented by annual in-service classes. Proper training in the various uses of force teaches officers different ways to protect themselves and reduce or prevent injury to those involved. Much of successful police work is found in the verbal and psychological skills developed through formal training and hands-on experience. Reasonable or necessary force is defined as “the minimum amount of lawful aggression sufficient to achieve a legitimate law enforcement objective.” A combination of classroom study, practical application such as role-playing, practice exercises, hands-on defensive tactics, and field training conducted by experienced officers appears to be the most effective approach to teaching use of force. Officer training will greatly improve in the near future because of advances in technology and greater professionalism. Computer-assisted instruction programs have recently received positive evaluations of their effectiveness with regard to general police training. Three types of computer-assisted instruction programs are currently being used in law enforcement training. The first is a tutorial program where the computer replaces the instructor, enabling officers to train at their leisure. The second type of program involves a computer and an instructor. “Drill and practice” consists of instruction by a course teacher followed by trainees answering questions on a computer. The final type of program is more advanced. Simulation computer-assisted programs are used in conjunction with an instructor, offering trainees the opportunity to train or practice in simulated real-life situations, created by audio and visual technology. Training is by far the best means of acquiring competent skills in the use of force. Continuing in-service training courses in the use of force during an officer’s career is essential to maintaining competence and sound judgment in the application of force. 25 references