TACTICAL RAPID RECOGNTION LESSON PLAN

Course Title:  Rapid Threat Recognition  8 hours

Author/Instructor: John L. Demand, Jr.

Purpose:  The purpose of the Rapid Threat Recognition Program is to give officers an introduction and methodology to increase cognitive skills and visual acuity to better observe and recognize threats.

Objectives: After a briefing of John Boyd’s OODA Loop (Observer – Orient – Decide – Act) as an overall strategy the learner will be introduced to four elements of observation:

1. Speed (through flash recognition)
2. Focus (a demonstration of the importance of intuitive decision making)
3. Detail (through facial recognition)
4. Threats (observation and awareness of pre-assault indicators). 

 These elements are skills that need to be developed through awareness and on-going practice using a supplied DVD and observational awareness in everyday encounters.

Resources and materials:   A classroom setting is necessary with a computer projector and screen.  All participants must have a clear and unobstructed view of the screen.  Students need to have a writing surface as they are given paper, drawing pencils, and sharpeners, as well as handout materials for the facial recognition portion of the program.

Activities & Procedures:

SPEED:

Each participant is given a pre-test to access their rapid recognition skill level.  Upon completion a series of progressive exercises are given throughout the day to increase recognition speed.  At the conclusion a post test is administered to determine progress.

(Note: Although we generally see impressive results from the class, it is important that students continue to exercise using the supplied DVD.)

FOCUS:

Actual dash cam videos are shown to illustrate the importance of maintaining focus.

DETAIL: The facial recognition (FACE WISE) exercises include hands on observation skills combined with motor skills to increase visual accuracy.

THREATS: Pre assault indicators are shown and discussed to create awareness of body movements to be watchuing for during rapidly evolving and dynamic situations.

What the student is expected to learn:  At the end of this session the student should have a new understanding that observation and maintain focus is critical to law enforcement and officer safety.  He/she will understand that through brain plasticity increased cognitive and observation skills can be attained through awareness, training and practice. Each student will have been exposed to state-of-the-art methodologies to continue skill development and be instructed to make every interpersonal encounter a learning opportunity that can ultimately save lives, reduce liability and achieve greater efficacy in fighting crime and terrorism.