Distance Learning Grant Program

Purpose

POST recognizes distance learning as a powerful tool that provides opportunities for readily accessible high-quality training that is delivered more efficiently and effectively. The DLGP is to fully develop and facilitate the delivery of quality training and increase equitable access to learning experiences using distance learning. A key component of this grant requires the developed courses be available for law enforcement personnel statewide.

Description

Grants will be awarded to develop and deliver training in one of five (5) program topic areas: Use of Force and De-escalation Implicit Bias and Racial Profiling Community Policing Cultural Diversity Organizational Wellness. The intent of the program is to award funds, on a competitive basis, to qualified public entities for the purpose of developing, delivering, and sharing innovative training through distance learning modalities. The target audience must be California law enforcement personnel who work for POST-participating agencies, as defined in Penal Code §13522, et seq. The program is intended to meet the short-term needs of social distancing, as well as the potential long-term impacts of reduced state and local budgets, and the anticipated reductions in discretionary spending available for training. DLGP grants will be available to develop and provide training in synchronous (instructor-led formats), asynchronous (self-paced formats), or hybrid versions utilizing both formats. All training shall be taught by subject matter experts, as approved by the POST Program Coordinator. DLGP mandates the developed online distance learning be available for law enforcement personnel statewide. Developed courses can be hosted via their agency LMS, the POST Learning Portal, a synchronous online meeting, or a combination of platforms. All courses will be listed on POST’s website. Training developed or supported under this grant solicitation must be POST-certified prior to any student instruction. Grant recipients are required to develop a proposed course budget (consistent with POST Regulation §1054), to include an expected per-student cost (tuition), for evaluation and reimbursement purposes. Grant recipients may not charge student tuition for any course or workshop developed or instructed under this program during the grant period. To the extent possible, grant recipients should develop and utilize curriculum that is evidence-based or evidence-informed. Learning outcomes should be both observable and measurable using proven training methodology that supports distance learning. As a condition of award, grant recipients will be required to conduct evaluations of their programs to demonstrate their effectiveness and ensure that the relevant outcomes of the distance learning are equal to, or greater than, traditional classroom-based courses. Grant recipients are encouraged to use innovative strategies, concepts, and methodologies in the development and delivery of training under this grant.