Training syllabus for private investigators
Use this syllabus as part of your basic training course to become a private investigator in Ontario.
Training content and program length
The minimum length of in-class time for the basic private investigators training program is no less than 50 hours. The following table suggests the duration for each training section and includes both in-class and outside class hours. Outside class hours refer to pre-reading only; all other training methods must take place in-class. These hours are estimates and may need to be adjusted based on student learning abilities/trainer preference. The trainer must determine the optimal number of hours for each section of his/her program design, but the total must be no less than 50.
| Training content | Suggested duration | |
|---|---|---|
| Inside class hours | Outside class hours | |
| 1. Introduction to the private investigation industry | 2 | 2 |
| 2. The Private Security and Investigative Services Act | 2 | 3 |
| 3. Provincial and federal statutes | 6 | 10 |
| 4. Criminal and civil law | 12 | 10 |
| 5. Investigative techniques | 14 | 2 |
| 6. Principles of ethical reasoning/decision-making | 2 | 0 |
| 7. Key principles of communications and interaction | 7 | 0 |
| 8. Self-management skills | 5 | 2 |
| Total | 50 | 29 |
Working and detailed knowledge
Each section identifies whether the student needs to have working knowledge or detailed knowledge of the training material.
Working knowledge is defined as involving a basic or sufficient understanding of the relevance of materials, products, subject matter, and/or services as required to perform the work assignment. Students with working knowledge can recognize departures from the standards set for the work assignment but require additional information through reference material or from others to correct the departures.
Detailed knowledge is defined as involving an in-depth understanding of materials, products, subject matter, and/or services that is necessary to complete the work assignment. Students with detailed knowledge can recognize departures from the standards set for the work assignment and correct the departure without the need to acquire additional information from reference material or from others.
Training methodology
In addition to the requirements of each section, it is recommended that the training program include a learning journal, pre-reading materials and training evaluation components. These are common techniques used in training design to promote the integration of material and background preparation as a way of maximizing in-class time for discussion. Please note that these are suggestions only and that the primary focus of each section is the minimum training requirements.
Learning journal
A learning journal is a notebook that the student uses to record course information and insights. It is a common tool used in training programs to facilitate additional learning and it is recommended that the journal be used throughout the course (and highlighted in appropriate sections) to enhance the learning experience of the student.
Pre-reading
Many sections suggest pre-reading activities for the student. This pre-reading should consist of summarized versions of the training content (e.g. legislation). Outside class hours have been allocated for this pre-reading.
Training evaluation
As the majority of content in the private investigator training program is focused on the application of learned knowledge, it is recommended that training evaluation include knowledge-based tests.
Instructor/student ratio
It is recommended that the instructor/student ratio is 1/24 for the basic private investigator training program to ensure the quality of instruction for the student.
Training delivery method
Students can complete basic Private Investigator training through either a classroom-based course or a web-based course.
Web-based courses must include some real-time interaction with an instructor, should the student require it.
Private investigator training obtained through web-based, instructor-led distance learning qualifies to meet the ministry’s requirement for training. Courses delivered live through a video conference are acceptable. Only students who have attended an in-class or online training course in full qualify to take the test(s).