NCJ Number
186464
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 11 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2000 Pages: 234-253
Date Published
September 2000
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article examines multicultural communication training within the community policing context.
Abstract
A case study involving two 4-hour training sessions using a cultural-general content approach and selected training methods attempted to determine the methods’ usefulness for improving officers’ multicultural competencies. The case included the training sessions together with pre- and posttraining activities over a period of approximately 3 months. Data were collected with selected test instruments and from field notes taken during case activities. Results suggest that the culture-general model and interactive training methods and trainer qualifications may be key to positive training outcomes. The article recommends that multicultural trainers of law enforcement officers consider highly interactive formats such as group exercises, simulations, and case studies that involve trainees and allow them to draw on their personal experiences and “lessons learned” to share and learn with one another. Further, while the ideal trainer may be an experienced police officer with competence in intercultural communication, a civilian trainer with similar communication skills can be successful as long as he or she respects the cop-culture boundaries and does not assume unearned in-group status. Tables, references