The success of a Field Training Officer (FTO) is dependent upon the ability to:

• Translate experience and understanding into training
• Gain the attention, participation, and trust of the trainee
• Develop awareness, decision making skills, and confidence in the trainee

This telecourse examines how one FTO approaches these three points over the
course of a single shift of the River City Police Department. Within that span of
time, the program touches on several key topic areas, including:

• The value of getting to know your trainee
• The importance of personal preparation
• The elements of verbal/communication skills
• Teaching skills: Primary and remedial
• Evaluation skills: Delivery of good news and bad news

As individual scenes of the telecourse unfold, five experienced FTOs from
throughout California comment on them with regard to approach, style, and
effectiveness of a quality Field Training Officer.