NCJ Number
172197
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 48 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1997) Pages: 74-77
Date Published
1997
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper describes how MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Ill., has maintained an effective program of college courses for a number of Illinois correctional institutions.
Abstract
MacMurray College has conferred 65 Baccalaureate and 770 Associate degrees on inmate students from 1984 to 1996. Only 1 of the Bachelor graduates and 44 of the Associate graduates have been reincarcerated. The 8 percent recidivism rate, based on released graduates, is far below the State and national average. Some of the challenging issues that have faced the program are how much complete and incomplete work should be considered to calculate a grade when a student dies and how important is an updated, accessible grade book when an instructor dies. These complications were considered on an individual basis, as have been most other challenges. Other challenges include the ever expanding inmate population and frequent student transfers. A coeducational learning environment also creates its own concerns; and even if the library and research materials are adequate, a frequent student concern is the alleged outdated textbook. Locating, clearing, and keeping outstanding and dedicated part- time instructors are some of the greatest difficulties. Although some situations are out of the control of the college, school district, or institutions, such as overcrowding, frequent transfers, and the control of gang activity, those that are controllable include obtaining some library materials, maintaining textbooks, and acquiring full-time and part-time instructors. To date, none of these challenges has proven insurmountable. 4 notes