Summary:

Chief Jay Gerace of the Town of Colonie (NY) Police Department shares his innovative microdosing training model, integrating tactical decision games and skill-based practice into daily briefings to enhance officer decision-making, confidence, and operational readiness.

Key Topics:

• Traditional ‘block’ training results in the worst retention and transfer of policing knowledge and skill

• The science of learning provides undeniable evidence for a spaced and interleaved approach to cognitive and practical skill training.

• The Town of Colonie Police Department conducted a 13-week ‘micro-dosing’ training session.

• Micro-Dosing consisted of weekly sessions approximately 20 minutes in length.

• Micro-Dosing topics chosen were critical cognitive knowledge (rules, policies and authorities), practical skills (weapons, radios, first aid), and decision-making skills.

• Implementation of tactical decision games was the method used to enhance decision making capability.

• The skill of the training facilitator in using Socratic feedback is essential for creating a trusting and positive learning environment.

• Impact of small, frequent training sessions on officer confidence and decision-making across all metrics was improved significantly.

• Post training effectiveness evaluation was conducted by the independent John F Finn Institute for Public Safety

• Agency leaders should strongly consider the power of consistent , short ‘micro-dosing’ training sessions to improve officer skill and decision making on the street.