Improving the levels of professionalism of trainers within the South African Police Service

Abstract

The study aimed to identify factors that cause unprofessional conduct among trainers at the training establishments in the Northern Cape Province of the South African Police Service. The researcher focused on the status of trainers in the SAPS and aimed to determine whether In-Service Education and Training can assist in enhancing trainers’ professional status. The aim of this study was to identify how the levels of trainer professionalism within the South African Police Service could be improved. The objectives of the study were to:  identify the expected levels of trainer professionalism within the South African Police Service  describe the current levels of trainer professionalism within the South African Police Service and  make recommendations for improving the levels of professionalism within the South African Police Service. A literature review on adult learning, training and development, as well as SAPS professionalism, was conducted. The literature review subscribes to the premise that if effective facilitation methods are implemented in adult learning centres, the attempt to motivate adults to participate in learning programmes could be successful. The qualitative research methodology that was conducted involved both one-on-one and focus-group interviews with senior management, middle management and trainers. Three themes were identified from the research question and sub-questions of the study and are discussed in detail. After the empirical data were analysed, the results of the empirical evidence were interpreted. Findings revealed that there are trainers in the SAPS whose behaviour is severely lacking in professionalism. Trainers do not exhibit appropriate ethical conduct towards their adult learners and do not follow the code of conduct as prescribed for division training as is the norm. Finally, based on the research, both future studies and improved trainer professionalism programmes with specific reference to the SAPS are recommended.