Catalog Description

Prerequisite: Completion of POST Basic Academy
Hours: 9 lecture
Description: Designed to provide officers with the knowledge to recognize distinct differences between interviews and interrogations. Covers legal issues and how to obtain truth from suspects, witnesses and victims. (pass/no pass grading) (not degree applicable)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Differentiate between direct and open-ended questioning used during interviews and interrogations.
  • CSLO #2: Apply current laws related to obtaining statements and confessions from criminal suspects.
  • CSLO #3: Outline techniques to obtain uncontaminated statements during criminal investigations.

Effective Term

Fall 2017

Course Type

Credit - Nondegree-applicable

Contact Hours

9

Outside of Class Hours

18

Total Student Learning Hours

27

Course Objectives

1. Create a statement of the goal of interview and interrogation;
2. Compare and contrast a person's reality and perceptions;
3. Analyze the many behaviors that are automatic or beyond conscious control;
4. Differentiate between open-ended and direct questions;
5. Outline ways to secure an uncontaminated statement;
6. Diagram dependable signs of deception; and
7. Discuss Confession Law updates.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
      • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
        • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

          Articulation Information

            Methods of Evaluation

            • Objective Examinations
              • Example: Students will correctly identify the goals and objectives of interviews and interrogations.
            • Skill Demonstrations
              • Example: Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct an effective interrogation, using fellow students as role players.

            Repeatable

            No

            Methods of Instruction

            • Lecture/Discussion

            Lecture:

            1. Using students to assist with role-playing, Instructor will explain and demonstrate proper interview techniques, using direct and open-ended questions. Students are expected to then demonstrate through role play with fellow students.

            Typical Out of Class Assignments

            Reading Assignments

            1. Read summarized case law decisions provided by instructor. 2. Read Fifth Amendment handout in preparation for class discussion related to Miranda.

            Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

            1. Conduct a practice interview with another student, using various types of questioning to gather information. 2. Practice securing an uncontaminated statement with another student playing the role of a suspect during interrogative questioning.

            Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

            Required Materials

              Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.

              Instructor-compiled readings.