versity can function as a viable alternative to programs requiring police officers to be physically present in classrooms at scheduled times. These programs range from courses in law to investigative techniques to courses focused on courtroom testimony, forensics, electronic and physical surveillance and advanced crime protection.
Kiley (1998) commented that these computerized learning programs are ideal for use in police departments. They can provide for economies of sale, reduce training costs, and allow officers to customize their own training programs. Additionally, online programming can be used to provide officers with opportunities to acquire college credit without having to take time away from duty.
The overwhelming importance of continued training for police officers was emphasized by Russell (2003) who noted that police officers today require enhanced knowledge and skills in a number of areas. Police today must work not only with new laws impacting upon searches, warrants, potential terrorism, computer and identity fraud, and specific victim populations, they must also work within a multicultural society that challenges officers to gain greater insight into the effects of culture on attitudes and behaviors.
Coleman (2004) emphasized the role played by police officers in facilitating the apprehension and arrest of criminal suspects. It is Coleman's (2004) belief that many unfortunate incidents negatively impacting upon the public, suspects, and police officers themselves occur because police do not have or maintain the basic survival skills of law enforcement. For many officers, these skills are taught during time at a training academy but are rarely reinforced or enhanced after officers are assigned to line duty. Basic survival skills are often viewed as too basic or simple to merit additional training time. Coleman (2004) states that a small investment of time in in-service training has the potential to...