PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AND CORRECTIONAL EDUCATION IN THE 1990S: A CRIMINOLOGIST'S PERSPECTIVE

• NCJ Number: 145978
• Journal: Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 44 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1993) Pages: 116-123
• Author(s): L J Winfree Jr
• Date Published: 1993
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Presented as the keynote address at the 47th International Conference of the Correctional Education Association, July 5-8, 1992 in Orlando, Florida.

Annotation

Topics with implications for developing strategies to improve and increase the role of education in corrections are addressed.

Abstract

This article examines some issues involved in achieving professional excellence in corrections education. It first looks at the growth and demographics of prison and jail populations in the United States since 1925 and makes projections about the future. The author then discusses direct supervision facilities and therapeutic communities within correctional facilities, two programs that have had some success in producing a positive work environment for corrections personnel and in reducing the rate of recidivism. As indicated by this article, these programs are tied to educational philosophy and practice. Various theories that have emerged through the years about the causes of commit crime are presented and the need for greater understanding of this issue is discussed. Finally, a list of recommendations to help corrections educators in meeting the challenges of the future are included.