The Effect of Knowledge Transfer in a Preparatory Law Enforcement Academy

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect the rules of a LEA can have on the learning transfer for the recruits in an effort to create a better learning environment that is more effective in preparing new LEO for entrance into the field of policing. By implementing rules that are less paramilitary in nature and focus more on the learning aspect of the curriculum the hope is to increase the students’ preparedness for the job upon completion of the academy and entrance into field training.An in depth literature review, on-line survey of 52 current and former law enforcement academy students and law enforcement officers, along with in-person interviews were utilized to collect and triangulate data. The analysis of collected dataindicated there should be a shift away from paramilitary rules within the academy, along with a transition to a moreprogressive constructivism delivery methodthat includes more soft skill training for new law enforcement officers. By focusing less on the police socialization of students, which can lead to a divided mentality between the students and the community, academies can better prepare students in the more modern day policing methodsand strategies.