Week 9 Reflection

Lesson Leaders

There are various ways through which research can be undertaken. However, evidence-based policing research is often defined as applied research or policy research. This chapter provided various valuable lessons and insights concerning policy research and the processes involved. One of the key takeaways from the reading was the distinction between applied research and policy research. Through this reading, I learned that applied research has to do with the practical application of ideas to bring change in the criminal justice system. On the other hand, I learned that policy research focuses on organizational or government policies and implications for various outcomes (Ratcliffe, 2022). Understanding the distinction between these two research frameworks can help shape a study. 

            Second, the methodological approach in research was another vital takeaway from the reading. Specifically, I was interested in the quantitative research approach. From the reading, I learned that quantitative research is central to much of evidence-based policing (Ratcliffe, 2022). I noted that this approach often adopts a positivist philosophy. The quantitative approach can be used to track incidents of use of force in a police department over some years and explore changes after officers receive training. Therefore, I believe the quantitative approach can be a useful methodology for developing evidence-based policy frameworks.

 Third, I learned that the methodological approach adopted influences the findings of a study to a greater extent. I established that evidence-based policing often tends to lean towards quantitative. A quantitative approach benefits police managers more than street officers because they shape the police and actions of a police department (Ratcliffe, 2022).

Lingering Question:

The chapter discussed the various research methodologies, such as quantitative, qualitative, mixed-method approaches, and surveys. I am curious to know which approach would be effective for a police department in determining the use of force by police officers and how training would change the issue. 

References

Ratcliffe, J. H. (2022). Evidence-Based Policing: The Basics. United Kingdom: Taylor &

Francis.