Dr. Shane primarily conducts applied research (compared to basic research, which is motivated by a desire to expand knowledge and involves acquiring knowledge for the sake of knowledge). Applied research is designed to answer specific questions aimed at solving practical problems. Applied research is a type of research design intended to solve a specific problem or provide innovative solutions to issues affecting individuals, groups, or society. New knowledge that is acquired from applied research has specific practical objectives such as implementing, modifying, or rescinding a policy, program, strategy, service, or training initiative with a social utilitarian purpose. Applied research is often referred to as a scientific method of inquiry because it involves the practical application of scientific methods to everyday problems.
When conducting applied research, Dr. Shane takes meticulous care to identify the problem, develop a research hypothesis, and test the hypothesis via an experiment whenever possible. When an experiment is not possible, Dr. Shane uses other methodologies that are suitable for the context and which minimize bias. Although Dr. Shane is a quantitative researcher, which means he uses empirical observation and data to make evaluations, he is well versed in all research methodologies including qualitative methods such as focus groups, interviews, and unstructured surveys. You can search for Dr. Shane's research on Google Scholar (many papers are available and downloadable) and ResearchGate, where he posts some of his content (subject to copyright restrictions). Most of Dr. Shane's publications are listed on his CV and may be found on Google Scholar, or the Internet.
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Dr. Shane is a member of the American Society of Criminology and the ASC Division of Policing, Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, Police Executive Research Forum, and International Association of Chiefs of Police. Dr. Shane is also affiliated with the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing at Arizona State University, the National Police Foundation, the National Institute of Justice Sentinel Events Initiative for wrongful convictions, and a former advisor to the New York State Task Force on Police-on-Police Shootings.
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Benefits of Participating in Research
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Improved understanding: By participating in research, police departments can gain a better understanding of issues related to policing, such as crime prevention, community relations, and officer safety. This understanding can inform policy and practice changes, leading to more effective and efficient policing.
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Increased legitimacy: Participating in research can increase a police department's legitimacy by demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based decision making. This can improve public trust in law enforcement, leading to better community relationships and more successful policing efforts.
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Enhanced training: Research can help police departments identify areas where training is needed and develop evidence-based training programs to improve officer skills and knowledge.
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Access to resources: Participating in research can provide police departments with access to resources such as funding, data, and expertise that may not be available otherwise.
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Contributing to the field: Police departments can contribute to the policing field by sharing their experiences and insights with other agencies, and helping to advance the knowledge base on effective policing practices.
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Evidence-Based Practices: Research allows police departments to adopt evidence-based practices, which are approaches and strategies that have been scientifically proven to be effective, which can lead to improved outcomes in areas such as crime reduction, community engagement, and officer safety.
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Informed Decision-Making: Research provides police departments with data and information that can inform decision-making at various levels, from strategic planning to tactical operations. Research findings can help police departments make informed decisions about resource allocation, policy development, and operational strategies, which can lead to more effective and efficient policing.
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Enhanced Community Relations: By engaging in research, police departments can demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and evidence-based practices, which can enhance public trust and confidence. This can subsequently lead to improved community relations, increased legitimacy, and greater cooperation from community members.
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Professional Development: Participation in research can provide opportunities for professional development for police officers and staff. Engaging in research can foster critical thinking skills, data analysis skills, and research literacy, which are valuable skills for police officers and staff in today's data-driven policing environment. Additionally, participating in research may offer opportunities for police personnel to collaborate with researchers and experts from other disciplines, expanding their knowledge and networks.
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Advancing the Field: Participating in research can advance the policing field as a whole. Police departments can contribute to the body of knowledge on effective policing practices through their participation in research studies. Research findings can help shape the future direction of policing, influence policy and practice at a broader level, and contribute to improving the criminal justice system.
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Grant Opportunities and Funding: Participating in research can also open up opportunities for police departments to secure external funding through grants and partnerships with academics. This additional funding can be used to support research initiatives, implement evidence-based practices, or address specific challenges faced by the police department.
If you are interested in conducting research with Dr.Shane, then please send an email to review and discuss your project.
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All copyright restrictions apply to any paper that is downloaded. All legal copyright and distribution restrictions apply, and you may not distribute copies or use the publications unless permitted to do so by copyright rules and laws in your own country, treating the download as an offprint.