Scenario tests are a job-simulation test that measure acquisition of the competencies required to achieve one or more learning objectives. These 14 scenario tests teach the importance of officer safety, tactics, and the ability to analyze a situation to solve problems in a timely manner to effectively prepare students for the field training program. 

At the February 2019 Commission meeting, POST staff presented the results of the Academy Testing/Remedial Training Survey.  The survey identified scenario testing as one of the highest reasons students fail the academy, second only to firearms.

 In response to a significant number of scenario testing failures at an academy and recent academy audits, POST staff discovered that some presenters were administering scenario testing early in the academy.  It was determined that some academies began testing scenarios as early as week five, therefore, not allowing students to receive the necessary training and instruction prior to testing. 

In an effort to standardize the administration of scenario testing, POST staff and the Scenario Committee have developed a list of prerequisite learning domains that are required prior to scenario testing. (Attachment A)  In order to ensure the highest level of student success on a scenario test the prerequisite learning domains must be taught and/or tested in their entirety. 

The following is a list of scenario competencies:

• Police Vehicle Operation - The ability to operate a patrol vehicle in a safe and efficient manner and to position the vehicle appropriate to the situation.
• Conflict Resolution - The ability to mediate disagreements by resolving a conflict using appropriate communication skills. 
• Use of Force - The ability to distinguish and apply objectively reasonable force options in given circumstances.
• Local Procedures - The ability to demonstrate knowledge of procedures or policies developed by the presenter or agency to address tactics or required actions in give circumstances. 
• Leadership - The practice of influencing people while using ethical values and goals to produce an intended change.
• Problem Solving/Decision-Making - The ability to analyze situations and implement plans to solve problems in a timely manner.
• Legal Authority/Individual Rights - The identification and application of laws and constitutional rights governing consensual encounters, detentions, and arrests. 
• Officer Safety - The demonstration of situational and tactical awareness and appropriate response. 
• Communication - The use of effective verbal and non-verbal skills to convey intended meaning and establish understanding. 
• Ethics - Using accepted principles of conduct that govern decisions and actions based on processional value and expectations. 
• Stress Tolerance and Emotional Maturity - Maintaining self-control and making timely, rational decisions in stressful situations.  

Each student must demonstrate a pattern of overall proficiency in each competency required by these tests.  Proficiency means the student performed at a level that demonstrated acceptable preparation for entry into a field training program.