Aurora Borealis

The Enhanced Cognitive Interview (ECI)

rauma‑centred interviewing designed to maximise accuracy, detail, and best‑evidence outcomes

This 2‑day Enhanced Cognitive Interview (ECI) Course is designed for Student Conduct Investigators who already have foundational interviewing skills and are required to conduct complex and sensitive interviews, particularly in cases involving sexual misconduct and harassment. Aligned with the OIA Good Practice Framework and OfS Condition E6, the course supports the requirement for appropriately trained investigators by developing advanced, evidence‑based interviewing capability. The Enhanced Cognitive Interview is widely recognised as an effective approach for improving memory recall while remaining trauma‑informed, fair and procedurally robust.

Using realistic student conduct scenarios, participants learn how to apply ECI techniques within institutional investigations to obtain more detailed and reliable accounts, manage trauma‑related responses and conduct interviews that meet regulatory expectations and sector good practice.

Due to the specialist nature of the ECI, delegates must have completed prior interview training. The course is delivered in person only, as it is not suitable for online delivery.

Course Learning Outcomes:
  1. The stages of memory, including its constructive nature and the key factors that can affect recall at each stage

  2. The core instructions of the Cognitive Interview (CI) and the structure and purpose of the Enhanced Cognitive Interview (ECI)

  3. The impact of trauma on memory and recall, and how to apply trauma‑informed strategies during interviews

  4. The types of conduct interviews in which the ECI can assist, including complex and sensitive student conduct cases

  5. How to apply the Enhanced Cognitive Interview in a realistic student conduct scenario to enhance the quality and reliability of evidence

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Delivery Options

In-Person Delivery

Orava deliver on-site at your institution or any location of your choosing. Maximum of 10 delegates

Use of a realistic case study, designed to meet your specific organisational needs.

Case Study
a group of people sitting in chairs in a room
a group of people sitting in chairs in a room
colorful sticky notes pinned to board
colorful sticky notes pinned to board
Course Costs

On‑site delivery: £1,200

All options include full course handouts, procedural guides and a certificate of completion.
Orava is not VAT registered, ensuring clear and straightforward pricing with no additional charges.

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Complete the form below to discuss delivering this course for your organisation. We’ll talk through your needs and explore how this training can best support your team

Aurora Borealis

Get in Touch

+44 (0) 7515 107 624