NCJ Number
134416
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 42 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1991) Pages: 196-205
Date Published
1991
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This study compares the Scottish system of prison education with that of California in order to recommend alternatives to currently existing California prison education programs.
Abstract
The article overviews the Scottish legal system and describes a typical day in a Scottish prison. Some similarities and differences between Scottish and California prisons are noted. The article then discusses the Scottish educational system as well as the organization and administration of Scottish and California prison education programs. A summary of education in California prisons follows. The author details prison education programs and budgetary considerations at four Scottish prisons: Barlinnie, Perth, Peterhead, and Saughton. The author found several Scottish practices that could be adapted to the California system. The most strikingly positive aspect of Scottish prison education is the extensive interaction with community organizations, especially charities. Prisons should more fully utilize the large numbers of volunteers willing to donate their time and talents to working with inmates. Another practice that seems to be effective is to release inmates from full-time work assignments to attend education classes on a voluntary, part-time basis. Developing an effective system for tracking and transferring inmate education records should be a priority. Finally, there needs to be a standardized prison education curriculum. 2 notes and 5 references