Examination of the Written Expression Skills of Incarcerated Males

• NCJ Number: 232294
• Journal: Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 61 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2010 Pages: 189-202
• Author(s): Margaret E. Shippen; DaShaunda Patterson; Caroline Dunn; Nicholas C. Derzis; Cindy L. Nelson; Auburn University; David E. Houchins
• Date Published: September 2010
• Length: 14 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study evaluated the overall writing proficiency of individuals who are incarcerated.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the writing skills of incarcerated males and to examine differences in these skills based on age and race. All participants (n-115) were male, so gender was not analyzed. Data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics as well as Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA). Results indicated wide variability in scores with mean grade equivalents measuring lower than ninth grade levels. Highly significant differences were noted based on race, with European American males scoring higher than African-American males specifically in writing composition and capitalization skills. Implications of findings related to the continued need for literacy instruction of incarcerated individuals are also discussed. Tables and references (Published Abstract)