Author: Robert K. Branson

Publisher:

Published: 1981

Total Pages: 38

ISBN-13:

A job and task analysis was conducted for entry level law enforcement officers in Florida in order to provide a basis for developing selection, training, and other personnel management procedures. Study data were gathered by means of a survey of 8,224 randomly selected law enforcement officers in the more than 420 agencies located throughout the State. A total of 6,741 survey booklets were returned. The officers came from 18 categories of agencies, including municipal police departments, sheriff's departments, the highway patrol, airport security personnel, and school district authorities. Information was gathered on personal background, tasks performed, equipment used, forms and reports used, types of vehicles used on patrol, and special requirements of the job. Among findings were that nearly all officers used a revolver or pistol, patrol car radio, and automobile and that 22 items of equipment were used by half or more of the officers. In addition, most officers used offense or multipurpose reports or supplements and a Miranda statement, over half of the officers used 20 types of forms and reports. The data developed in the job and task analysis can be used for providing an accurate description of the current activities taking place within an occupation, for tracking the implementation of changes in laws or in organizational policy, and for designing training programs. Occupational survey data are also useful for personnel selection, performance appraisal, and job classification. Analysis of the data base established in the job and task analysis project can also provide the basis for developing empirically validated job-related standards which would be more likely than intuitive standards to meet legislative and court requirements. Examples of the results produced in the total survey and a list of publications resulting from the study project which this report summarizes are provided. Tables are also supplied.