The effectiveness of simulation in drug recognition expert training: Quebec hybrid training model

ABSTRACT

The purpose of adding simulated evaluations in the drug recognition expert (DRE) practical training is to address the significant limitations (standards and ethical considerations) related to the recruitment of intoxicated persons. The objective of the research study was to verify whether the DREs trained using simulated drug influence evaluations (professional actors supported by supplementary data and technology) are as effective in the field as those trained conventionally, i.e. with intoxicated persons only. Based on all the evaluations carried out in the field by all DREs between 2011 and 2015 in Quebec, the results show that DREs whose training is based solely on simulated evaluations are as effective (92.4% laboratory corroborated evaluation rate) in the field during the 24 months following their certification as those trained conventionally (90.6% laboratory corroborated evaluation rate). A hybrid field training model is a plus in DRE training as it enables us to control the training parameters.

KEYWORDS:

• Simulation-based training
• police training
• drug recognition expert
• drug influence evaluation
• hybrid training model

Disclosure statement

The International Association of Chiefs of Police Highway Safety Committee’s Technical Advisory Panel has mandated the Centre de recherche et de développement stratégique (CRDS) of the École nationale de police du Québec (ENPQ) to conduct this research. The CRDS members have the necessary scientific independence to rigorously take on research projects entrusted to them by the ENPQ. So, no pressure or interference is exerted by the ENPQ on the choice of protocols, on the adopted scientific methods or on the conclusions reached. Finally, the CRDS members derive no benefit from these mandates.

Additional information

Funding

The research study costs were assumed by the École nationale de police du Québec.

Notes on contributors

Eve Paquette

Eve Paquette is a Researcher at the Centre de recherche et de développement stratégique of the École nationale de police du Québec. She is also a Ph.D. student at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières. Her works aims to improve the training offered to Quebec police officers and to optimize the use of analysis and research by the police community.

Joanie Prince

Joanie Prince is a consulting analyst at the Centre de recherche et de développement stratégique of the École nationale de police du Québec. By her works, she contributes to the rapprochement between research and police training.