Privatization of Corrections - Methodological Issues and Dilemmas Involved in Evaluative Research

• NCJ Number: 100193
• Journal: Prison Journal Volume: 65 Issue: 2 Dated: (Autumn-Winter 1985) Pages: 95-107
• Author(s): A R Roberts; G T Powers
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 13 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. For microfiche, see NCJ-100185.

Annotation

The recent evaluation of the transfer of the Florida State School for Boys at Okeechobee to the Jack and Ruth Eckerd Foundation illustrates the inadequacy of current evaluation methods.

Abstract

This evaluation used an outdated typology to reach the inappropriate conclusion that the study population and the population at the facility used for comparison were similar in crucial respects. Evaluations must deal with both process and outcome to be effective. Intensive-design research methods are needed to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of particular interventions in individual cases. Extensive-design research methods are needed for testing hypotheses relating to groups of subjects. Research should start at the individual level and proceed to the group level. Behavioral objectives that are measurable and quantifiable must be used. Multiple evaluation measures that include overall measures and interim measures are also needed. Comparative assessments of two correctional facilities should use experimental or quasi-experimental designs. 22 references.