The Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training in Handgun Shooting: Evidence from an Experimental Study with Law Enforcement Officer Candidates
SALUS JOURNAL, cilt.13, sa.1, 2025 (ESCI)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 13 Sayı: 1
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Dergi Adı: SALUS JOURNAL
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI)
- Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
In the context of enhancing the operational readiness of law enforcement personnel, the development of advanced shooting skills is indispensable. This experimental study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of simulation systems in enhancing the shooting performance of law enforcement candidates. A total of 80 officer candidates, all novices in firearm use, were randomly assigned to test and control groups. After completing the necessary basic pistol shooting training, both groups initially performed shooting exercises without any prior simulation exposure. Subsequently, the test group received simulation training (8 lesson hours, 200 simulation shots), while the control group repeated the same shooting exercises and then both groups fired second rounds of shots. The results indicated that the test group exhibited a significant improvement in accuracy and overall scores, particularly at longer shooting distances (25m), achieving a 94% increase in hit accuracy and a 112% improvement in score, compared to the relatively modest gains observed in the control group. The findings advocate for the systematic integration of simulation-based training within law enforcement academies, not only to elevate performance metrics but also to optimize resource utilization and operational readiness in complex field scenarios.