Field Training for Corrections

Registration Deadline: July 25, 2025 

CORRECTIONS PERSONNEL ONLY
 

Course Description: 
This is a 2.5-day course. This course is designed to provide knowledge and training to develop Field Training Officer’s skills with a focus on Corrections Officers. Each new FTO will be presented with ideas and techniques to assist them in becoming more professional and confident in the application of their skills. This course is based on a modified “San Jose” program common in most departments across the US. Many of the topics will also apply to a variety of different FTO programs. 

Objectives 
At the end of this course, students will be able to: 

    Discuss the "San Jose" and other program models 
    Understand differences from Lesson Plans and Check-off List 
    Identify demands on FTOs as Instructors 
    List five of the errors in rating 
    Understand the basics of Adult Learning Theory 
    Identify liability issues 
    Understand performance evaluations 
    Understand the Rating Scale and Reference Numbers 
    Complete the Daily Observation Report 
    Counsel the new officer/deputy 
    Have a working knowledge of Problem Solving 
    Mentor the new officer/deputy. 

Prerequisites 
There are no prerequisites for this class; however, it is recommended that the student be familiar with their agency’s field training program. 

Teaching Methodology/Class Format: 
Lecture format in a classroom style with “hands-on” applications allowing students to participate in practical exercises to generate immediate results during class. 

Class Size & Instructor/Student Ratio: 
Generally, the maximum class size is 40 students at a ratio of 1 instructor to 40 students. Classes may be larger with special approval. 

Handouts: 
Course Manual Blank DORs 

Training Aids: 
Power Point Presentation 
Videos 

Safety Requirements 
Not applicable 

References: 
The Field Training Concept in Criminal Justice Agencies – Glenn Kaminsky 

Student Requirement: 
Each student should bring a copy of their department FTO manual for reference. 

Methods of evaluation 
A Pre-test written exam must be taken by each student to gauge the knowledge of the student officer coupled with Frequent Oral quizzes, Practical In-classroom Exercises, continual evaluation of skills learned throughout the course, and concluded with a Final Exam. 

Course Outline 

Day One 
Introduction 
FTO Program Structure 
Basic Goal of Supervised Field Training 
Nine Roles of the FTO 
Coach Pupil Method of Instruction 
Theories of Learning 
Training Briefs 
Adult Learning Theory 
Effective Feedback 

Day Two 
Creating the Learning Environment 
Motivational Theory 
FTO Overrides 
Evaluations 
Scale Value System 
Standard Evaluation Guidelines 
Using the DOR 
Common Evaluation Errors 
Additional Training 

Day Three 
Legal Issues 
Nancy Fahdl Case 
Practical Exercise 
Final Exam

THIS IS NOT A PUBLIC MEETING