NCJ Number
196767
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 53 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2002 Pages: 96-99
Date Published
September 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This research was conducted to investigate the validity and benefits of correctional education, in particular higher education, in the face of a growing trend in the United States to reduce or eliminate educational programs for inmates.
Abstract
In recent years re-arrest rates have averaged 60 percent, a clear indication that incarceration is not working. Crime rates have been essentially flat for the past 20 years, but the United States prison population has tripled since 1980. The drive to incarcerate, punish, and limit the activities of inmates has led to elimination of educational programs, often completely, in correctional facilities. It has been found that certain types of educational programs save money because they keep inmates busy and reduce the number of prison staff needed for supervision. And as prisoners become better educated, they often serve as tutors and teachers and role models for other inmates. It has been found by the Federal Bureau of Prisons that there is an inverse relationship between recidivism rates and education, in particular, obtaining a GED for some and basic literacy training for others. It has been found that of all crime-prevention methods, education is the most cost-effective. It is recommended that Federal financial assistance for correctional educational programs be reinstated and funding be increased for post-release support services. In conclusion, an analysis of the findings obtained from this study shows that correctional education has a positive effect on reducing recidivism and saving taxpayers' money by reducing the number of inmates at prison facilities. References