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The association between participant characteristics and perceptions of the effectiveness of law enforcement tactical simulator training

ABSTRACT This study is among the first to examine the perceptions of police officers who complete virtual firearms and tactics simulator training for purpose of improving relations between citizens and law enforcement officials. The results of our analysis identified two main findings. First, it showed that the vast majority of participants perceive the simulator training that they completed to be of value, as evidenced by the high mean values of positive perceptions of the simulator. Second, we identified participant characteristics related to both increased and decreased odds that participants perceive the simulator training as effective. Specifically, possessing a bachelor’s degree and employment with a municipal police department are related to an increased likelihood of perceiving the training as more effective than other training methods. Police departments and researchers should consider the possible implications of these subtle predictors and develop strategies and policies that will enhance the experiences of all trainees and, ultimately, more favorable training outcomes.