Getting Started
Begin your Analysis
What should I do first?
In the "Analyze Problem" section, you can begin by reviewing the "Questions to Consider" which will help guide your approach to solving the problem. Then you can begin gathering information about the problem by clicking on the links listed under the headings "Interviews," "Reports," and "Other Research."
What other help is available?
On the “Analyze Problem” and “Create My Plan” panels, you will notice small question marks . You can click these for more specific information about each part of the panel. For your convenience, this informatrion is accessible in this help section.
General Questions
What is a response?
In problem-oriented policing, a response is a possible solution to a given problem. For instance, enhancing the lighting in an area known to be frequented by drug dealers is a response that might make the area less attractive for those transactions.
What are the "Responses Revealed"?
As you work through your analysis (conduct interviews, read reports, etc.), responses related to the topic may be shown. These responses are taken directly from the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing's problem-specific guide on street prostitution. When you are ready to create your plan, you will be choosing from the responses which have been revealed to you to create a balanced solution to the problem in Central City.
What are the problem-specific guides?
The guides summarize the collective knowledge from research and practice about how, and under what conditions, certain common police responses to crime and disorder do and do not work. Many topics are covered in these guides, and more are in development.
These guides are available from the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing web site: http://www.popcenter.org/.
What are the “Hints” and “Facts?”
Under the “Analyze Problem” and “Create My Plan” panels, facts and hints are presented randomly as extra information, to offer insight into problem-oriented policing and the problem of street prostitution.
Where can I look at maps of the area?
Maps of Central City, with overlays of crime data, can be found in the “Other Research” area, on the “Analyze the Problem” page. View the maps in a new window.
Are the people I interview real?
No, the people and story behind Central City is fictional, although the idea and accounts are based on experience and research done in response to street prostitution.
What are the "Critical Questions?"
These questions are provided to guide your analysis. The questions aim to achieve a complete picture of the current situation in Central City.
What is the correct or "model" plan?
There may be a better plan, but there is no one right answer. The goal of this module is to help you understand the problem-oriented policing process and also realize that a problem can be attacked using a variety of responses. We have tried to show the variables you must contend with in investigating a problem and formulating a plan: budget constraints, community support, political forces, etc. There is usually a very strong time factor also.
Can I go over budget with my plan?
Yes. There is no budget limit for your plan. However, feedback from the mayor may not be very positive.