NCJ Number
164913
Date Published
1994
Length
14 pages
Annotation
Acknowledging reports by the U.S. Department of Justice that the typical offender is undereducated, unemployed, and living in poverty before incarceration, this annotated bibliography briefly describes 43 studies that have scientifically linked prison education programs with reduced recidivism.
Abstract
Several studies at State and national levels have focused on adult basic education and secondary level preparation for the GED in an attempt to demonstrate a positive relationship between participation in educational programs, educational attainment, and reduced recidivism. Other studies have demonstrated support for the premise that a positive relationship exists between postrelease employment, reduced recidivism, and vocational training during incarceration. Although conflicting evidence is reported by some researchers, research seems to demonstrate positive effects when vocational training programs share the following common characteristics: (1) programs train for real jobs in the community that are needed and respected; (2) vocational training is coupled with cognitive/literacy education; (3) trainees who have the greatest potential for completing the program are served; and (4) training includes a job placement link in the free world. Studies are also reported that focus on the development of social and cognitive skills. 43 references