National Survey of Postsecondary Education Programs for Incarcerated Offenders

• NCJ Number: 74492
• Author(s): R H Herron; J T Muir; D Williams
• Date Published: 1973
• Length: 27 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: US Office of Economic Opportunity
• Corporate Author: Paul M. Deutsch Press, Inc
• Publication Format: Document
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The results of a survey of postsecondary education status in 305 adult correctional facilities located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Federal prison system are presented and recommendations for correctional postsecondary programming are given.

Abstract

The survey was administered to superintendents, assistant superintendents, or education directors at all of the major State and Federal adult correctional facilities listed in the 1972 directory of the American Correctional Association. Reception and diagnostic centers, medical facilities, and farm and labor camp operations were not included. In most cases, the survey was administered by long distance telephone; however, in North Carolina, two facilities were contacted directly and information on the other facilities was gathered from the central office. A total of 71 percent of the institutions offered postsecondary programs to residents. A total of 68 percent of the facilities would excuse residents for program participation; however, classes were generally held in the evening after the work day. Instruction was most often given by college or community college faculty; associate degree or technical certificate programs were most common. Over half of the programs utilize a study or school release program. Most of the institutions offered the General Educational Development Test; fewer make use of the College Level Examination Programs. A review of the programs' histories showed an upsurge in programming effort in the late 1960's. Increasing course offerings, starting a study release program, and adding degree granting provisions were the most frequent plans for the future; however, 52 respondees indicated that they had formulated no plans. Postsecondary program administrators should avoid copying traditional programs for their clients and should identify and adapt programs which are successful at other institutions. They should develop cooperative efforts with college personnel and community members and provide postrelease support for enrollees. An ongoing evaluation component should be developed for each program. Tables, figures, four footnotes, and the survey instrument with responses are included.