Educating, legitimising or accessorising? Alternative conceptions of professional training in UK higher education: A comparative study of teacher, nurse and police officer educators

Authors: White, D. and Heslop, R.

Journal: Police Practice and Research

Volume: 13

Issue: 4

Pages: 342-356

eISSN: 1477-271X

ISSN: 1561-4263

DOI: 10.1080/15614263.2012.673290

Abstract:

Police initial training is a newcomer to UK higher education. Other similar professions like teaching and nursing have long-established university partnerships. This paper compares police officer education schemes with teacher and nurse education. The particular focus is on the lecturers themselves, and the ways in which they are positioned between academic and professional fields of influence. Three distinct models of professional education are identified. These demonstrate how inter-institutional relationships have significant impact on how recruits will experience the professional curriculum. We conclude that the police service cannot assume unproblematic connections between education, learning and professional performance. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

Source: Scopus