NCJ Number
114612
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 39 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1988) Pages: 164-169
Date Published
1988
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Based on the relevant literature, five principles of correctional education are: identify the priority, focus on behavioral change, use MacCormick's 'old red barn' theory of personnel selection, put educators in charge of educational decisions, and place trust in inmates.
Abstract
The identification of a priority is important so as to avoid compromising long-range objectives for short-range benefit. Correctional education should focus on both the acquisition of practical knowledge and social development, so that the inmate acquires both the vocational and social knowledge required to function normatively in society. In his keynote address as president of the 1939 American Prison Congress, Austin MacCormick said, 'I will guarantee to run a good prison in an old barn if you will give me the proper personnel.' Correctional educational personnel must be selected for their personal characteristics as well as their knowledge. Educators should also be in charge of educational decisions, including those pertaining to curriculum, budget, and personnel. Since inmates experience personal development by exercising increased responsibility and opportunities, educational programs must structure opportunities for deserving inmates to demonstrate responsible choices and behaviors. 21 references.