FTO Basic Certification
Fee: $375/Members, $400/Non members
Training provided by Field Training Associates, Inc.
Bruce Sokolove
After three and a half years of research and field testing, Field Training Associates
has rolled out an alternative to the traditional numerically anchored rating scales associated with traditional Field Training and Evaluation Processes. Our corporate theme has always embraced Breaking Routine™, not for the sake of change but rather change to enhance the process of Field Training and Evaluation.
The changes are a result of the time-intensive and grade-based process that has sapped energies away from the primary intent of the Field Training Unit - to train and coach Probationers to excel in the delivery of law enforcement services.
All Standard Evaluation Guidelines behavioral-anchors have been rewritten to provide the FTOs and Probationers with a competency-based process that frees up valuable timefor hands-on training without compromising performance assessment as a criterion for continued employme
This forty hour, hands-on
course is specifically designed for
experienced uniformed patrol personnel
selected to serve as Field Training Officers
with probationary employees.
Emphasis is placed upon the
FTO’s role in assisting probationers
certify for solo patrol operations by
applying the knowledge and skills acquired
during Basic Police Training and utilizing
them in accordance with Department policy,
procedures and service delivery standards.
The course highlights two essential Field
Training and Evaluation Process:
1) The ability to examine
and objectively document probationer job
behaviors and actions utilizing standardized
assessment guidelines and..
2) Analyzing the
probationer's training needs and utilizing
appropriate instructional techniques fo
acceptable performances and when necessary
corrective action.
The instruction presentation
will focus upon discussion as well as
hands-on application of the course materials
in small group and individual in-class
exercises. Students will be required
to complete out-of-classroom reading
assignments from the course textbook,
Breaking Routine: Field Training
Officer. The classroom discussion will
include:
Field Training officer
duties/responsibilities
The structure of the
Field Training and Evaluation process
Uniformly and
objectively assessing probationer
performance
Narratively documenting
probationer performance
Utilizing a variety of
on-the-street instructional techniques
Specifically documenting
the extent of training and coaching
Managing the Note
Responding to Training probationer
use of the probationer's
Training and Evaluation Method
Special attention: Students
must bring a pocket calculator to class to
complete light arithmetic exercises.
Students should be familiar with their
Department’s current Field Training and
Evaluation Process and are encouraged to
bring a copy to class along with the
performance assessment criteria used by
their Department
