Training

Read more about the article Advancing Police Field Training: PTO 2.0 Comes to Edmonton
Training

Advancing Police Field Training: PTO 2.0 Comes to Edmonton

Advancing Police Field Training: PTO 2.0 Comes to Edmonton

📅 April 13 – 17, 2025
đź“Ť Northwest Campus, Edmonton, AB

The future of police field training is here. The Police Training Officer (PTO) 2.0 program has been modernized and adapted to address the evolving needs of law enforcement, and we’re excited to bring this advanced training opportunity to Edmonton, Alberta this April.

Whether you’re a field training officer (FTO), police educator, or trainer, this course will equip you with cutting-edge techniques in problem-based learning (PBL)—enhancing critical thinking, adaptability, and decision-making in real-world policing.

Why PTO 2.0?

  1. Traditional field training programs focus heavily on memorization and rigid processes, often lacking the flexibility needed for modern-day policing challenges. PTO 2.0 addresses these gaps by:

    âś… Refining the Coaching & Training Reports (CTR) to reduce administrative burdens
    âś… Incorporating PBL techniques to train officers in mental health crisis response
    âś… Enhancing cultural competency training to improve community interactions
    âś… Providing adaptable learning methods to develop critical decision-making skills in the field

    This five-day immersive course is designed to help trainers, supervisors, and law enforcement educators build a more effective and forward-thinking training model.

What You’ll Learn:

🔹 Master the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) methodology for field training and officer development
🔹 Examine the Police Training Officer (PTO) model and how it enhances modern police education
🔹 Engage in interactive learning methods that strengthen on-the-job decision-making
🔹 Develop strategies for training officers in mental health and cultural competency
🔹 Improve training efficiency using modernized administrative tools

What You’ll Learn:

This training will be led by some of the top experts in police education and problem-based learning:

👨‍🏫 Gerard Cleveland – Co-founder of PSPBL, police training consultant, legal educator
🎤 Malena Gonzalez – President of PSPBL & Co-facilitator

Course Details & Registration

📍 Location: Northwest Campus – 18440 127 Street NW, Edmonton, AB, T6V 0N3
📅 Dates: April 13 – 17, 2025
⏰ Time: 0800 – 1600 (To be confirmed)
đź’° Cost: $1200 per person (Meals & accommodations not included)

đź“© For inquiries and registration, contact:
Sgt. Olena Fedorovich – PTO Unit
📧 Olena.fedorovich@edmontonpolice.ca

đź”— Learn more & register today at: www.pspbl.org

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March 16, 2025
Read more about the article PTO – Train the Trainer
Training

PTO – Train the Trainer

🚨 PTO - Train the Trainer 🚨

Instructor Certification
Police Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
July 7 – 18, 2025
Saturday & Sunday July 12 & 13, 2025 – off
8:30 AM to Finish (varies daily)

PTO – Train the Trainer
Build Societal Trust through Adaptive Policing
Problem solving in partnership with your community stake holders

REGISTER NOW

Develop a PTO Program – PTO 2.0 Update

The Police Training Officer program is a new model for post-academy field training in law enforcement. In this model recruits use problem-based learning to address neighborhood problems in partnership with the communities they serve. Problem-based learning is a recent development in police education and this program is the first time it has been used in such a fashion.

Become PBL certified and a trainer for the PTO field-training program

Learn ”Police PBL” – the new version of PBL crafted specially for police educators by the instructors of this course. It is the basis of the US Department of Justice field training method – the Police Training Officer (PTO) program – which the instructor of this course co-created. You will be taught by the originators of this program not only how to teach and develop Police Training Officers, but how to incorporate PBL into all your police training from academy to advanced in-service.

A new standard in excellence for 21st Century teaching

In this course you will learn how to teach through a dynamic, and unique, new form of training – Problem-Based Learning (PBL). PBL is a state-of-the-art educational approach originally developed in medical schools. It is student-based and uses real-life problems to help students learn to solve problems and think in creative ways. PBL is emerging as the most dynamic and engaging form of learning for students of all types. This one of a kind, 10-day course is intensive, hands-on, and has been described as the most challenging, and satisfying, course in policing today.

Skill you will learn:

  • Forming strategic alliances that promote and sustain community based problem-solving.
  • How to use PBL to help students self-discover course material, take ownership of their own learning, enhance teaching and facilitation skills
  • How to teach the Police Training Officer course and develop the new PTO.
  • How to use the tools of Police PBL: the ill-structured problem, the cohort learning group, tutoring, and mentoring, emotional intelligence, and the evaluation rubric.
  • Improve mental health by developing emotional intelligence and resiliency in your training.
  • Learn about the childhood and lifelong trauma effects of ACEs, improve the ability to respond to persons in crisis, de-escalate situations, and build trust within communities.
  • How to help police recruits become confident, safe and ethical officers.

Skill you will learn:

  • Academic instructors, educators and managers in criminal justice and policing.
  • Field training officers and patrol supervisors
  • Stake holders in community-oriented policing.

On successful completion of the course, candidates will become qualified to teach the PTO course, to create additional courses using PBL and teach other PBL designed police courses, and utilize best practices of adult education in law enforcement training.

This course will be a two-week session held at The Mickelson Criminal Justice Center in Pierre, South Dakota.  The sessions will consist of 10 full days, with group assignments and work required of participants during evening hours. There is also an on-line pre-course assignment and a field exercise required prior to arrival at the course. Successful candidates will be certified PBL instructors joining an elite group of police educators centered at the Police Society for Problem-Based Learning.

As part of their in-class assignments, course candidates are asked to bring a copy of course curricula and training manuals for other police courses they already teach or have taken. Candidates will complete the pre-course assignment prior to the on-site course. They will present it during the first day of class.

Register now to become a certified trainer and help build the next generation of law enforcement that embraces problem-solving, accountability, and community collaboration!

Location:

George S. Mickelson Criminal Justice Center, Law Enforcement Training 1302 Highway 14 East, Ste 5 Pierre, SD 57501

Cost:

$3,500.00 USD

No charge for in-state law enforcement.

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT AND RELATED STAKE HOLDERS.

Dormitory lodging and weekday cafeteria meals included in course fee.

Course includes materials, mentoring, academy lodging, weekday meals, and subsequent certification with the Police Society for Problem-Based Learning.

REGISTER NOW
DOWNLOAD COURSE INFORMATION SHEET
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October 7, 2024
Read more about the article Unlocking Success Webcast: Essential Skills for First Responders, Mastering Communication & Cultivating Creativity
Training / Videos / Webcasts

Unlocking Success Webcast: Essential Skills for First Responders, Mastering Communication & Cultivating Creativity

WEBCAST PART 1

Unlock the power of effective communication and creativity in first responders.

Join us as we delve into two essential topics:

  1. Mastering Communication: A Guide to Effective First Responder Interviews

  2. Cultivating Creativity: A Vital Skill for Law Enforcement Professionals

How to Prepare?

Prior to the webcast, we encourage you to watch the two pre-release videos provided. These videos will help set the context for our upcoming discussion. As you watch, take note of any questions or insights that arise. During the webcast, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with our panel of experts, so come prepared to join the conversation and share your thoughts.

PART 2 FOR WEBCAST

AS WE HAD A GREAT CONVERSATION, WE HAVE SCHEDULE PART 2 FOR THURSDAY, MAY 23 @ 8 PM EST.

CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Enhance Communication Skills: Participants will acquire practical techniques for effectively communicating with individuals in various contexts, enabling them to build trust-based relationships and navigate challenging interactions with confidence.
  2. Cultivate Creativity: Attendees will explore strategies for fostering creativity within their law enforcement roles, empowering them to approach problems with innovative solutions and adaptability, ultimately leading to more effective problem-solving outcomes.
  3. Strengthened Problem-Solving Abilities: Through the integration of problem-based learning methodologies and real-world scenarios, participants will develop a deeper understanding of how to analyze situations, generate hypotheses, and implement creative solutions, equipping them with the skills needed to tackle complex challenges in their professional roles.

DOWNLOAD THE WEBCAST PACKAGE AND SHARE WITH COLLEAGUES

DOWNLOAD PDF
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April 10, 2024
Resources / Training / Videos

Mastering Communication: A Guide to Effective First Responder Interviews

Communication lies at the heart of first responder interactions, and our ability to connect with individuals can make all the difference in the field. In our latest video, “Speaking to People: A First Responder’s Guide to Interviewing,” we uncover indispensable tips for approaching individuals both physically and verbally, giving you a deeper understanding of communication dynamics.

Have you ever contemplated how you’re perceived in your vital role as a first responder? In this illuminating discussion, we delve into the significance of self-awareness and its profound influence on your interactions with the community you serve. Join us to gain invaluable insights into enhancing your communication skills and building positive, trust-based relationships.

Our featured author, Gerard Cleveland, PSPBL Founder & Co-Chair, brings a wealth of knowledge to this exploration of effective communication. By the end of this video, you’ll be better equipped to engage with individuals, foster understanding, and leave a positive impact in your community.

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your communication abilities as a first responder. Share this video with your colleagues and embark on a journey to become a more skilled and effective communicator in your critical role.

Author: Gerard Cleveland, PSPBL Founder & Co-Chair

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November 14, 2023
Resources / Training / Videos

Cultivating Creativity: A Vital Skill for Law Enforcement Professionals

In the dynamic world of law enforcement and public safety, challenges often persist, demanding innovative solutions. Creativity emerges as a vital skill for investigators and problem solvers, offering a path to sustainable resolutions.

We invite you to join us in this engaging video, “Strategies for New Officers: Creativity in Problem Solving, Investigation, and Patrol.” In this enlightening discussion, we explore three fundamental pillars that enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities: Experience, Hypotheses, and Outreach. These pillars are seamlessly integrated into the Problem-Based Learning methodology, transforming it into a powerful tool for promoting innovation and effective decision-making.

Our featured author, Gregory Saville, PSPBL Founder & Co-Chair, provides valuable insights and practical strategies to nurture creativity within your workplace. By the end of this video, you’ll be equipped with the skills required to tackle complex issues and drive positive change within your law enforcement career.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your problem-solving toolkit and boost your effectiveness as a law enforcement professional. Feel free to share this video with your colleagues who can also benefit from the wealth of knowledge it offers.

Join us on this journey to cultivate creativity and enhance your problem-solving prowess. We’re committed to supporting your growth and success in the field of public safety and law enforcement.

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November 7, 2023
Training

Divergence and Convergence – tips for fostering collaborations during problem-solving

Introduction:

Welcome, young cadets, nonprofit organizations, community-focused cops, and valued members! In this blog entry, we will explore the theme of creative collaboration and how to establish a cultural foundation that nurtures diverse perspectives, guides the creative process, embraces tension and conflict, and ultimately leads to innovative solutions. By understanding and implementing these basic tips, your teams will thrive and make a positive impact in your communities.

1. Establishing Cultural Conditions for Thriving Diversity:

To create an environment where diverse perspectives flourish, it’s essential to foster a culture of inclusivity, respect, and open-mindedness. Encourage everyone to share their unique viewpoints without fear of judgment. Emphasize the value of diversity in problem-solving and decision-making, recognizing that each individual’s background and experiences contribute to the richness of ideas.

Promote active listening and empathy, enabling team members to understand and appreciate different perspectives. Create platforms for sharing stories and experiences, helping to build connections and break down barriers between team members. Remember that diversity is not just about race or gender but also includes different skills, knowledge, and personalities.

2. Designing and Guiding the Creative Process:

The creative process is an essential aspect of collaboration. Encourage teams to engage in a cyclical approach, alternating between divergent and convergent phases. During divergence, generate as many ideas as possible without judgment or evaluation. Brainstorming sessions are excellent examples of divergence, where the focus is on quantity over quality.

In contrast, during convergence, sift through the ideas, identify common threads, and narrow down the options to those with the most potential. This phase involves critical analysis and evaluation of the ideas generated in the divergence phase.

Remember to provide a safe space where creativity can flourish without fear of failure. Encourage risk-taking and experimentation, as these often lead to breakthrough solutions. Celebrate both successes and failures as valuable learning opportunities.

3. Embracing Tension and Conflict as Opportunities:

Tension and conflict within a team can be seen as healthy signs of growth. It indicates that team members care passionately about the project and are actively engaged. When conflicts arise, address them constructively by encouraging open discussions and promoting mutual understanding.

Encourage the team to approach conflicts as opportunities for growth and exploration of ideas. Strive for a balance between assertiveness and openness, ensuring that everyone feels heard and respected. Additionally, provide regular one-on-one feedback sessions to foster open communication and address any lingering tensions.

4. Harnessing the Power of Diverse Perspectives for Innovation:

Encourage your teams to actively seek out diverse perspectives when tackling challenges. Engage with community organizations, individuals with varying backgrounds, and subject matter experts. Each perspective brings unique insights and knowledge, which can lead to innovative and holistic solutions.

By incorporating different viewpoints, your team will gain a deeper understanding of the problem and identify blind spots that might have been overlooked otherwise. This approach will not only result in better outcomes but also strengthen the bond between your organization and the community you serve.

The Future of Collaboration:

In conclusion, fostering an environment for creative collaboration requires dedication, empathy, and a willingness to embrace diversity. By establishing a culture of inclusivity, guiding the creative process, embracing tension and conflict, and seeking out diverse perspectives, your teams will thrive, and your community initiatives will reach new heights.

Together, let us embrace the power of collaboration and work towards a future filled with innovative solutions that positively impact the world around us. Happy collaborating!

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August 8, 2023

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