Perceptions of the Vocational Education Program in the New York State Department of Correctional Services

• NCJ Number: 177450
• Journal: Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: March 1999 Pages: 12-20
• Author(s): A Brandon; D Chard-Wierschem; M Mancini
• Date Published: 1999
• Length: 9 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

A survey of inmates and staff was conducted in 53 correctional facilities throughout New York State to determine their perceptions of the State's Department of Correctional Services Vocational Education Program.

Abstract

Respondents were 430 educational supervisors and instructors at the 53 facilities, as well as 389 randomly sampled inmates who were within 3 months of release. Ten percent of the inmate sample were women. The survey queried respondents about their views of the program's effectiveness in improving work skills, technical skills, and student personal attributes relating to employability. Also measured were chances of obtaining successful employment once released into the community and the overall quality of specific programs based on inmate and staff perceptions. Respondents were asked to list their perceptions of the most positive components of the program as well as what changes would be needed to improve the program. Survey findings show that both inmates and instructors believed the program has been useful in improving interpersonal skills as well as employment skills. In the area of employability of students, there was more uncertainty. Although almost three-fourths of those surveyed agreed that students are being well prepared for the job market and are likely to get a job upon release, the rest were uncertain about this. Almost half of the students expressed concern that their felony record would be an obstacle in finding employment. On the other hand, nearly 80 percent of the staff agreed with the statement that students who receive vocational training are less likely to return to prison. There is need for more definitive follow-up studies of the employment records of inmates when released. Such studies can show both staff and students which vocational areas are most useful for the successful employment of ex-offenders. 6 tables and 1 reference