INDIANAPOLIS - IMPD is allowing people without a badge to walk in their shoes. More than 15 people took part in IMPD’s scenario-based training Thursday night. FOX59/CBS4's Jenny Dreasler also got to take part in the training. IMPD hosts engagement program to curb youth violence The night started in the classroom and centered around the use of force and police shootings. Participants got the chance to learn the ins and outs of the law, including how and when officers use force, ranging from verbal commands to using a stun gun, or deadly force with a gun. Then it came time to test out what was learned in the classroom. The group was put into real-life scenarios in IMPD’s Hershyville Training Village, which is designed to look like a real town complete with homes and businesses. The group went through multiple scenarios and situations that required split-second life-or-death decisions. The goal is to de-escalate and correctly identify when or if to use force, and which kind. “I think it will actually open their eyes to see what police officers really have to go through and the danger they face every day," said Indy resident Meloney Grasty FOX59/CBS4's Jenny Dreasler even got to try her hand in a scenario where officers simulated an unknown risk traffic stop. Dreasler and her partner, Grasty, faced a woman who jumped out of a car and immediately started shooting The two successfully de-escalated the situation using what they learned in class. “From that scenario, I learned that police officers sometimes don’t have the opportunity to think," said Grasty. "Things happen so quick and they have to go at a quick judgement in order for them to go home at night." IMPD Chief Chris Bailey SAID it’s training like this and allowing the public a behind-the-scenes look at policing that’s crucial to keeping their work transparent. “I think there’s a lot of misunderstanding. Some of that is on the backs of law enforcement and not just Indianapolis but across the country. We need to show people what we do, why we do it and how we do it. There’s still a misunderstanding about a lot of things," said Bailey. Family of Indy 15-year-old injured in hit-and-run seeking answers Bailey hopes more training like this in the future will not only keep officers prepared but keep the public informed. “We are wanting to educate people because there’s a lot of people who think they understand our job and how they would do it and how they think and officer should react in certain circumstances but when you actually get put in that position when you’re the one who has to make that decision and live with the consequences of it then I think it gives a different perspective," said Bailey.