Field Training Officer Course (POST)

This course fulfills the POST training requirements for Field Training Officers (FTO's) and personnel with the responsibility of training law enforcement officers.  It focuses on the core functions of an FTO which are to teach, evaluate, and document (TED).  The instructional techniques used focus on the modern science of learning and specific techniques to build the student's teaching skills.  Students are given opportunities to work on daily observation reports, remedial training plans, and to apply the standard evaluation guide rating scale.  They are given several opportunities in the course to teach, counsel, and evaluate mock trainees and complete related reports.  Other topics include legal and liability issues for California Peace Officers.

Program Requirements:

All students must be currently employed as Peace Officers or in capacities where they train law enforcement personnel.  Students must complete all of the required hours of training and pass the end of course final examination.

Learning outcomes include:

1. Define the roles and responsibilities of Field Training Officers.

2. Identify different learning styles and when to transition for a trainee.

3. Apply communication and counseling skills to assist trainees in resolving conflict related to their training.

4. Describe the four goals of a POST-approved Field Training Program.

5. Recognize how the Field Training Program is an extension of the Regular Basic Course.

6. Explain the attributes of a successful FTO.

7. Define the function and roles of the FTO.

8. Discuss the key elements in establishing trust between the FTO and Trainee.

9. Describe the sources of stress that may affect Trainee performance.

10. Identify available methods and resources to minimize Trainee psychological, physical, and emotional stress.

11. List ethical issues within the Field Training environment. 

12. Define communication as it relates to the FTO position.

13. Understand the components of effective training.

14. Explain the elements of student-centered learning vs. teacher-centered learning using the RIDEM acronym. 

15. Understand contemporary adult learning methods. 

Yuba College anticipates 40 annual completers.  This estimate was determined after examining the occupational employment and projected demand data, the North (Greater Sacramento) program supply data, and after speaking to regional agency training managers and POST, who have all asked that Yuba College present this course.

Students who complete this course will satisfy the State of California requirements for POST related Field Training Officers.  This course must be completed satisfactorily before training new officers can be done by training officers.

Students will be currently employed Peace Officers or in capacities where they train law enforcement personnel.  Students will be required to attend all sessions and complete the entire class by doing the following:

1. Listen to instructor lectures.

2. Participate in group activities.

3. Discuss contemporary law enforcement and training issues.

4. Conduct and discuss case studies on recent or emerging law enforcement or training issues.

5. Participate in mock counseling and evaluation sessions.

6. Prepare evaluations and related documents.

7. Take notes.

8. Pass quizzes and exams.

9. Complete homework and out of class assignments as necessary.