The review focused mainly on studies reporting empirical data, using control groups, controlling statistically for background differences if participants were not assigned randomly to control and experimental groups, and testing for statistical significance. The analysis considered the following outcomes: recidivism rates, enrollment in educational programs upon release from incarceration, and disciplinary problems while incarcerated. Results revealed a fair amount of support for the hypotheses that adult academic and vocational correctional education programs lead to fewer disciplinary violations during incarceration, reductions in recidivism, increases in employment opportunities, and increases in participation in education upon release. Several specific factors were identified that explain why some programs are more successful than others in achieving their stated goals. Tables, footnotes, list of studies not discussed in this review, and 72 references