NCJ Number
83535
Date Published
1979
Length
34 pages
Annotation
The system for classifying academic and vocational programs operated by the Michigan Department of Corrections is described and evaluated in terms of its effectiveness in matching clients to programs.
Abstract
Information was gathered on classification at 11 facilities, using interviews, observations, and a review of client records. The classification process formally links intake procedures to client placement in programs. Decisions about program placements are based on the client's past history, an interview with the client, and other criteria such as program openings and the length of the client's sentence. Participation in programs is voluntary except for residents identified as needing programming for job readiness. The evaluation of the classification program revealed that the persons recommending specific placements often lack current information about available programs. In addition, documentation of program classification actions is often inadequate or missing from the client's institutional files. Assessments of clients' needs rarely occur. However, most facilities do provide residents information about program options. Nevertheless, some classification directors report that enough work assignments do not exist for all the residents who need or wish to work. Almost three-quarters of the cases studied were matched to a recommended program. Reasons for not matching included the lack of a recommendation and failure to assign a case to a recommended program. Other findings covered communication and coordination and problems at specific facilities. Recommended solutions to many of the identified problems and an appendix presenting data tables are provided.