NCJ Number
132360
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The Reading to Reduce Recidivism (3R) program is a computer assisted program that has been implemented in Texas to address the educational and rehabilitative needs of offenders throughout their progression in the criminal justice system. The program uses a competency-based curriculum delivered via software to offenders lacking a basic education.
Abstract
Because nearly 70 percent of offenders in Texas prisons lack a high school diploma or GED, their chances of finding suitable employment upon release are slim. Lack of education can hinder an offender's reintegration as well as his response to drug and alcohol treatment programs. The goals of the 3R program are to help offenders obtain a GED as well as basic cognitive and technological skills. Participants may enter the program in prison, on parole, or on probation; they are tested and placed at the appropriate level in the curriculum. The software program contains components on reading and vocabulary, language and writing, math and communications skills, life skills, and specific GED instruction. The program facilitates a transition to the community and allows students to receive individualized instruction. The program has served 272 students, 54 of whom have earned GEDs. By March 1992, enough data will have been collected to evaluate the program in terms of its impact on recidivism; initial self-report interviews indicate that the 3R program has reduced participant criminality, improved family relationships for offenders, and enhanced participant job skills. 4 references