IFI Training

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The IFI training philosophy is that participants learn best by doing, and, for this reason, large portions of each course are performance-oriented. Each course teaches patrol officers, evidence technicians, detectives, surveillance personnel, arson investigators, lawyers and other investigators how to document, process, and testify to evidence. Many of the courses use high-quality photographs, video clips and computer generated images in both investigations and in court displays. Through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on assignments, each course participant is trained to think about issues and produce compelling results.
For most courses, after a session of classroom instruction and demonstration, students spend additional hours in practical exercises that help put the specific techniques taught into practice. Every course requires out-of-class reading and practical assignments. Analysis and critique of each participant’s photographic efforts provide valuable feedback. These intensive learning experiences enable participants to obtain immediate results upon return to their regular jobs.

Quality is assured in several ways:

First, by using course outlines, approved by experts, and supported by high-quality audio and visual materials. Courses are carefully planned to mix in-class practical exercises with lecture and clearly written instructional texts and other handouts.

Second, by selecting highly qualified and experienced instructors. 

Third, by having students rate their courses which they do at the end of the course and again after six months on-the-job to determine the practical effect on their work. IFI carefully studies the responses and implements improvements on a regular basis.

IFI courses were developed on the basis of surveys of practical industry needs, technology evolution, and consistency with industry norms. Instructors follow approved course outlines to assure that all students are taught to the full range of topics selected for the particular course. Instructors are chosen for their ability to teach and their experience. Most IFI courses are certified by the Indiana Law Enforcement Training Academy. In addition to using their own equipment, in many courses, students can also practice using IFI's collection of devices and software. Regular courses are scheduled at IFI’s facilities, but custom courses can be arranged upon request at other locations.