Why Online Simulations are Perfect for Law Enforcement Training

What is Simulation Training?

It is a form of coaching that utilizes a computer model to imitate real-life scenarios. There are special controls and equipment that the officers use to make decisions based on the virtual scenario. For example, a simulation can involve a suspect holding a civilian hostage while threatening to hurt them with a dangerous weapon. The officer is then given the option to shoot or not shoot the suspect. The good thing about simulations is that they are interactive. If the officer tries to talk to the culprit by giving proper direction, they will comply most of the time. Thus, the simulation helps the officer learn how to handle hostage situations.

Why Use Simulated Law Enforcement Training

You can create a training simulation around any skill an officer uses in their job. They learn about the proper procedures and apply their knowledge to realistic scenarios. Practicing in a risk-free environment instills confidence in officers because they know they can handle such scenarios if they ever happen in real life. Simulated learning prepares an officer's mindset to deal with any situation. In fact, the simulation training could expose the officer to a large number of deadly encounters with criminals. Some of these may rarely happen in real life but could be included so the officer is prepared for anything.

You can design training simulations to improve the alertness of officers. Most officers experience tunnel vision while they are in the field. Tunnel vision is important because it keeps the officer focused on the suspect and the situation. However, it's also dangerous because the officer might fail to notice other threats hidden in the background. A simulated experience can give the officer such scenarios and allow them to repeat scenarios if they fail on the first attempt. This repetitive practice helps officers learn to increase their alertness so they are not caught off guard in the field.

Simulated learning can also focus on improving the officer's shooting accuracy. For example, when faced with an armed criminal that fires with a short warning or even without a warning, most officers will react quickly, draw their weapons and fire. The downside to such a reaction is that the officer won't use his or her sights, and the suspect may continue shooting, putting the law enforcement official at risk. A training simulation can allow an officer to practice using his or her sights first before firing. The officer may be required to repeat the scenario over and over again until they get it right. That way, law enforcement officials can learn to disarm the target quickly and minimize the number of casualties.

For officers in training, a simulation can help them become familiar with weapons and accessories. Officers may receive a duty handgun, a backup firearm, electronic control devices, flashlights, batons, shotgun, and even a vehicle that allows the law enforcement official to drive to the simulated crime scene. These devices would resemble the real ones and operate in a similar manner. The only difference is that they don't fire live bullets or emit real electricity. Depending on the simulated scenario, an officer can decide which weapon is best for dealing with such a particular situation.

Training simulations are very immersive. The scenarios are based on real possibilities and an officer must react properly to the circumstances. Many officers find this experience thrilling and frightening at the same time. However, once an officer gets used to the simulator, they minimize performance errors. The main advantage of using simulated training is that it allows the officer to make a mistake and then learn from it by repeating the action. The constant repetition of the event allows the officer to master effective procedures.

Training simulations can keep a score of the officer's performance. And, they give supervisors an idea of their officers’ capabilities as well as improvements. If the law enforcement official continually earns high scores, he or she might capture the superior's attention. This may even be valuable information when considering promotions.

Conclusion

Simulated law enforcement training helps officers improve their performance on the ground. Simulated learning is realistic and immersive, allowing the officers to master the handling of a number of dangerous situations.

At Designing Digitally Inc., we create custom training simulations that allow learners to gain experience in a safe and measurable environment.

To learn more about simulated learning experiences and how your company can be impacted, live chat with us or book a free consultation with one of our experienced Learning Solutions Specialists today!