Cognitive Interview Course

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Advanced Investigative Interviewing for Reliable, Court-Defensible Information

In-Person Training

Master the most scientifically validated method for obtaining accurate, uncontaminated statements from victims, witnesses, and suspects.

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Course Overview

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The Cognitive Interview (CI) Course teaches investigators how to enhance memory retrieval, establish rapport, and gather reliable information through scientifically supported techniques. Developed from decades of research in psychology and human memory, the CI has been proven to significantly increase the quantity and accuracy of recalled details compared to traditional interview methods.

Through structured questioning, mental context reinstatement, and rapport-building strategies, participants learn how to reduce contamination risk, avoid leading questions, and collect statements that withstand courtroom scrutiny.

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The course combines lectures, video analysis, and practical exercises to ensure investigators can immediately apply CI techniques in real-world investigations.

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Participants will learn:

• How to mentally reinstate context to improve memory recall

• Why open-ended prompts and timeline reversal generate new details

• How to detect inconsistencies without confrontation or suggestion

• Ways to reduce contamination and maintain statement integrity

• How to document and defend CI interviews in court

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Tuition Fee

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$450 / seat or: $596 when combined with 4-hour Detecting Deception Course

2 Days In-Class - 16 Training Hours
2 Expert Instructors
Q/A with Instructors
Practical Interview Simulations

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Course Structure

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Enhance your investigative skills with expert-led instruction and hands-on practice.

In-Person Learning
Classroom-based Environment

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The course materials are delivered through lectures, group discussions, video presentations, and hands-on practicum. Investigators will conduct full Cognitive Interviews, receive expert feedback, and analyze real interviews to identify what techniques lead to the most accurate recall.

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Key learning topics include:

• Human Memory & Retrieval Principles

• Rapport-Building for Investigative Interviews

• Open-Ended Questioning & Cognitive Load Techniques

• Reverse Order Recall & Context Reinstatement

• Avoiding Contamination & Leading Questions

• Documenting & Defending CI Results in Court

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Course Requirements

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Participants must:

• Attend all three training days

• Actively participate in group exercises and interview practicums

• Complete a final practical interview demonstrating CI techniques

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Course Goal

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At the end of this course, investigators will be able to conduct structured Cognitive Interviews that generate significantly more accurate and detailed information, improving case outcomes and increasing the likelihood of successful prosecutions.