Training to Needs or Checkboxes? An Evaluation of Critical Incident Response Training
Article Information
Citation
Hall, J., & Hoard, D. V. (2026). Training to needs or checkboxes? An evaluation of critical incident response training. NIJ LEADS Special Issue, 19-35.
Keywords
Police training, training evaluation, needs assessment, adult learning, evidence-based training, skill retention
Research Summary
This article evaluates the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center’s (FLETC) Critical Incident Response Training (CIRT) course, a training program that extends beyond traditional threat mitigation to address scene management, communication, medical intervention, and incident command. The course was developed in response to performance data showing deficiencies in how officers respond to and manage critical incidents such as active aggressor events.
The study examined law enforcement performance at two large metropolitan sites (a West Coast and a Midwest police department) using pre- and post-surveys and qualitative focus groups. Results indicated that the course significantly improved officers’ confidence and preparedness across all areas of critical incident response, with large effect sizes at both sites.
Focus group findings identified six key themes (communication challenges, training gaps, multiagency coordination, leadership and incident command, ego and leadership dynamics, and resource allocation), offering practical insights into what agencies must address to improve critical incident performance. The article provides specific recommendations: maintaining clear communication protocols, developing mandatory training for commanding officers, and conducting regular scenario-based training to sustain readiness for real-world incidents.
Companion Video
Rethinking Police Training: From Compliance to Competence
Dr. Hall presents findings on training effectiveness and discusses practical strategies for needs-based training design.