Symposium On Training Issues

The Commission reconvened this symposium for two main purposes: (1) to report on progress since the initial symposium; and (2) to determine levels of practicality and support for implementing remaining major recommendations. This report presents the outcome of that symposium. Highlights of the keynote speakers, the work of the attendees in breakout groups, and information shared in plenary sessions reflect: (1) confidence in the direction taken by the Commission in developing or improving upon courses for supervisors and field training officers; (2) direction to develop courses in "managing fear"; (3) the desire to have POST increase experiential training, particularly for cultural awareness courses; and (4) direction to continue studying the benefits and feasibility of merging the academy with the field training program. The work both accomplished and in progress, as a follow-up to the recommendations, was viewed by symposium attendees as being practical and appropriate.