COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The Basic Instructor Certification course is a comprehensive 40-hour program designed to prepare Texas peace officers, jailers, or telecommunicators (with at least two years of experience in their field) to become effective instructors within their agencies and training academies. This course covers the fundamental principles of adult learning, instructional design, and effective communication techniques necessary to deliver engaging and informative training sessions.
Students will learn how to develop lesson plans, create training materials, proper use of instructional aids and technology, and employ a variety of teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles. The course also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards in training, the role of the instructor in promoting a positive learning environment, and strategies for assessing student performance.
Students must demonstrate the basic knowledge and skills required to effectively instruct a lesson during two teaching exercises. A written exam will be given on the last day of class in which students must score a minimum of 70% to complete the course.
Upon successful completion, students will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge required to effectively deliver TCOLE-mandated training programs and contribute to the professional development of their peers.
SPECIAL NOTES:
Dress for this course is business casual. Students should wear their uniform or a topic appropriate professional dress style for their final presentation.
A laptop is required for this course. It must have Microsoft Word and Power Point on it and the ability to connect to Wi-Fi.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR:
Wendy Sheriff retired from the Garland Police Department after 28 years of service. Wendy has held the positions of Patrol Officer, Neighborhood Patrol Officer, School Resource Officer, Sexual Assault and Family Violence Detective and Homeless Liaison Officer. Wendy also served as an Adjunct Professor for Dallas College Law Enforcement. Wendy is a Master Peace Officer and is a licensed Advanced Instructor. Wendy is certified in Critical Incident Stress Management and Mental Health. Wendy is a US Army Veteran, having served for nine years with tours in Panama, Honduras, Germany, Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
