Advanced Science-Based Interviewing (SBI)
The advanced Science-Based Investigative Interviewing (SBI) course expands upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired in the introductory course. It particularly emphasizes preparing for and conducting real-life investigative interviews involving victims, witnesses, and suspects. This advanced course is designed to develop participants’ proficiency further in applying evidence-based interviewing techniques, strategic planning, and ethical considerations in the context of criminal investigations.
Building on the principles introduced in the introductory course, the advanced SBI course delves deeper into the intricacies of investigative interviewing, specifically focusing on the unique challenges and considerations involved in interviewing victims, witnesses, and suspects. Participants learn advanced questioning strategies, rapport-building techniques, and cognitive interviewing methods tailored to each category of interviewee, taking into account factors such as trauma, memory reliability, and deception detection.
A significant component of the advanced SBI course is the emphasis on preparing and planning for real-life criminal investigations. Participants are guided through developing interview plans and strategies tailored to specific investigative objectives and case circumstances. This includes identifying key information gaps, selecting appropriate interview settings, and establishing rapport-building approaches tailored to the needs of each interviewee.
The course incorporates hands-on role-playing activities in a supportive learning environment, providing you with practical experience in conducting investigative interviews with victims, witnesses, and suspects. Through structured role-playing scenarios, you'll take on the roles of interviewers, interviewees, and observers, simulating realistic interview situations commonly encountered in criminal investigations. This environment ensures you feel safe and encouraged to learn and grow your interviewing skills.
For victim interviews, participants learn how to approach sensitive topics with empathy and compassion while also ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the information obtained. Role-playing activities may involve scenarios such as interviewing victims of violent crimes, sexual assault, or traumatic events, where establishing trust and rapport is paramount to obtaining essential information.
In witness interviews, participants practice techniques for eliciting detailed and accurate accounts of events, overcoming memory biases, and identifying potential discrepancies or inconsistencies in witness testimony. Role-playing scenarios may include interviewing eyewitnesses to crimes, bystanders, or individuals with relevant information about the case.
In suspect interviews, participants learn advanced interrogation techniques grounded in ethical and evidence-based principles. Role-playing activities focus on developing participants' ability to identify signs of deception, challenge false statements, and gather incriminating evidence while adhering to legal and ethical standards.
Throughout the advanced SBI course, you'll receive constructive feedback from instructors and peers, providing valuable insights to reflect on your performance, identify areas for improvement, and refine your interviewing skills. This feedback process ensures you feel supported and guided, enhancing your learning experience and preparing you to effectively handle the complexities of real-life criminal investigations while upholding the rights of all parties involved.