History

• The first police agencies in the U.S. used on the job training almost exclusively, according to the Law Library. Officers were chosen and appointed by local politicians. These officers had very little, if any, formalized or classroom instruction. Early American police officers learned about their jobs as they patrolled the streets.
  
  

Features

• The Law Library notes that modern day police agencies continue to utilize on the job training. Most officers are required to complete a formal, pre-employment training course. Many police departments then require officers to complete a set number of field training hours, prior to full employment.
  
  

Considerations

• On the job training can improve police responses to crime.police car up close image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
  
  According to the U.S. Department of Justice, funding is available for innovative on the job training programs. These programs use a combination of adult learning and field training techniques. Officers are then better prepared to deal with the ever-changing environment of law enforcement.