NCJ Number
214948
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 57 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 126-140
Date Published
June 2006
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This article describes a 16-hour, preplumbing program taught by a plumber to 7 groups of women (n=60) from 4 county correctional facilities in New York State; evaluation findings are presented.
Abstract
The evaluation showed a statistically significant gain in knowledge about basic plumbing as measured by tests before and after the course. The women reported that they had benefited most from the hands-on approach to the material. In addition to gaining new knowledge and skills, the women reported increased self-esteem and increased confidence in their ability to learn new skills. The women also expressed satisfaction with the group interaction in the learning experience. Circumstances did not allow for making causal connections between completion of the plumbing maintenance program and recidivism; however, for the 28 women for whom recidivism data were obtained (46.7 percent of the participants), only 3 had been reincarcerated 6 months to 2 years after program completion. The program was designed to prepare the women to perform basic plumbing maintenance in settings such as hotels, hospitals, schools, and apartment complexes. It also provided a basic knowledge of plumbing that improved students' chances for admission to trade schools and apprenticeship programs. Students learn plumbing maintenance and problem solving skills through demonstrations with fixtures and tools, videos, and hands-on practice. A textbook/workbook and homework assignments were used to reinforce concepts learned in the classroom. In addition to teaching basic plumbing maintenance skills, the program emphasized teamwork, a positive attitude, and confidence-building, qualities that are necessary in any job and in building a healthy self-esteem. 1 table and 25 references