Although there are several fine education and training programs in our nation's correctional institutions, most are substandard. The two primary reasons for this are the existing confusion over the purposes of imprisonment and the effects of reform on the correctional system. The focus of correction is continually shifting as reform movements exert their influence. For example, one work, which is both cited and attacked extensively, suggests that recidivism is unaffected by rehabilitation efforts. Optional Programming, the policy followed by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, allows optional inmate participation in vocational programs due to the belief that forced attendance may cause resistance to involvement. Instead, inmates are allowed to choose from a wide variety of programs in the hope that the chances for successful postrelease adjustment will be increased. Continued support for education and training in corrections depends on tying education and training to the work program of the institution. Improvement of educational programs rests in staff education and development, upgrading job qualifications, and improving job benefits and salary. A question and answer section and a list of related publications are included. (ERIC abstract modified)