200 words response 1 reference/intext citation Due 1/20/2024
Abel
The issue of whether trainee firearms examiners should possess firearms knowledge before they are hired and trained is complex. The issue requires a detailed analysis that considers the profession’s practicalities and ethical concerns. Trainee firearms examiners should know firearms since a foundational understanding of firearms before joining the training program can greatly help trainees. The knowledge can enhance the learning rate and enable trainers to comprehend how analysis is carried out in criminal investigations. Information about different firearm ammunition and related terminology helps the trainees lay down a strong foundation to enable them to work crime scenes (Hollon et al., 2023). Additionally, having preliminary information about weapons sharpens the practical skills of trainee examiners. Knowing how to handle firearms and related forensic tools can make trainees more confident and enable them to perform their duties effectively.
On the other hand, the pre-training practice can also turn out to be an invaluable program during actual work since the assessment must be obtained rapidly and precisely. Critics argue that the need for prior knowledge of firearms might accidentally limit diversity in candidates joining the field (Mattijssen et al., 2020). They argue that mandating specific expertise in firearms discourages people with alternatives and from different backgrounds from applying for a position since they may lack knowledge of firearms. In such a context, an open-minded recruitment policy that allows all candidates with unusual backgrounds may help create a more lively and diverse labor force.
In conclusion, firearms examiners should have firearm knowledge before being hired and trained. Prior knowledge has various advantages including improved learning processes and better practical skills, emphasizing the need for a combined holistic training program. The approach makes sure every trainee regardless of his original knowledge gets the required education to do well in their positions. Agencies should take into account candidates with previous knowledge since they have an initial advantage in understanding how to conduct forensic analysis. The agency would achieve a balance by integrating more experienced people into the training process since promoting a cadre of firearm examiners not only with technical skills but with practical knowledge would accelerate advancement in forensic science practices.