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Evaluating the Effectiveness of Correctional Education: A Meta-Analysis of Programs That Provide Education to Incarcerated Adults
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After conducting a comprehensive literature search, the authors undertook a meta-analysis to examine the association between correctional education and reductions in recidivism, improvements in employment after release from prison, and learning in math and in reading. Their findings support the premise that receiving correctional education while incarcerated reduces an individual's risk of recidivating. They also found that those receiving correctional education had improved odds of obtaining employment after release. The authors also examined the benefits of computer-assisted learning and compared the costs of prison education programs with the costs of reincarceration.
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... The situation that prompted this research is the recognition, while prison education programs hold promise in reducing recidivism rates (Davis et al., 2013), the overpopulation crisis on San Andrés Island significantly strains resources and infrastructure (Cruz & Torrejano, 2020). This strain exacerbates social and economic disparities, potentially contributing to higher crime rates (Archbold, 2019). ...
... The tendency of previously incarcerated individuals to relapse into criminal behavior, particularly after having been imprisoned. In this study, recidivism specifically pertains to the rate at which Raizal ex-offenders return to prison following their release (Davis et al., 2013;Duwe & Clark, 2017;Esperian, 2021). ...
... Research suggests an overemphasis on punishment, without considering factors such as social support, education, and employment opportunities, can exacerbate recidivism rates (e.g., Clear et al., 2017). While studies have shown a positive correlation between prison education programs and reduced recidivism (Davis et al., 2013;Zoukis, 2023), many have overlooked the crucial role of cultural context in program effectiveness, particularly for diverse populations (Domenech Rodríguez et al., 2011). ...
Raizal ex-offenders on San Andrés Island, Colombia, encounter significant challenges when reintegrating into their community, often compounded by ineffective prison education programs and the unique sociocultural dynamics of the Raizal community. While previous researchers have identified barriers to successful reintegration, a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of Raizal ex-offenders and the perspectives of community leaders is needed. This phenomenological study, guided by culturally responsive pedagogy and social disorganization theory, was conducted to explore these experiences and perspectives. Through semistructured interviews with 10 Raizal ex-offenders and 10 community leaders, data were collected to examine the effectiveness of current prison education programs and the impact of overpopulation and cultural erosion on the reintegration process. Thematic coding of the data revealed key themes: (a) inadequate prison education, (b) lack of cultural relevance in educational content, (c) consideration of returning to crime, and (d) broader socioeconomic challenges such as overpopulation and government corruption. Findings demonstrate existing prison education programs fail to meet the cultural needs of Raizal inmates, contributing to high recidivism rates and reintegration difficulties. The findings from this study can lead to positive social change by informing policymakers and practitioners of the critical need for culturally responsive prison education programs and helping in the development of reforms to support successful reintegration, thereby contributing to positive social change.
... Previous research has shown that access to education and vocational training significantly reduced recidivism. Smart technologies, such as digital learning platforms and vocational training simulators, enhanced the skills and qualifications of inmates, in preparation of employment opportunities upon release [63]. For example, those who participated in educational programs while incarcerated were 43% less likely to return to prison [63]. ...
... Smart technologies, such as digital learning platforms and vocational training simulators, enhanced the skills and qualifications of inmates, in preparation of employment opportunities upon release [63]. For example, those who participated in educational programs while incarcerated were 43% less likely to return to prison [63]. Additionally, the successful reintegration into society is another critical objective of smart technologies in prisons. ...
The world of smart prisons is gaining momentum despite receiving limited attention due to the ability to maintain social order and reduce crime rates. Therefore, this research aims to synthesize the current knowledge of smart prisons, identify barriers to trend technologies, and provide valuable insights for practitioners, and policymakers. The systematic literature review (SLR) method by Kitchenham was used to collect data from Scopus from 2007 to 2023, which comprised 59 articles in the final phase. The high cost of smart technology, ineffective technology design, poor management, aging facilities, increased violence, ethical concerns, and lots more, were some of the barriers associated with the topic. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies, such as cost-benefit analyses, phased implementation, and comprehensive staff training, to overcome these barriers. The study also reveals varied approaches to smart prison adoption across countries, influenced by differences in economic resources and policy frameworks. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous evaluation, international collaboration, and adherence to ethical standards to sustain smart prison development. The result showed that smart prisons are important in the field of corrections.
... An additional challenge is the complexity of evaluating the effectiveness of the implemented educational actions (point three). Davis et al. (2013) correlated the formal educational dimension to the lowering of recidivism. On the other hand, it is much more complex to succeed in evaluating the nonformal and informal educational dimensions, both because of the lack of structured tools to assess learning achievements according to specific indicators and the absence of ad hoc trained personnel to carry out monitoring and evaluation actions. ...
This article presents the outcomes of a doctoral research focused on the prison library service, which is recognized as essential within prison context to support the growth of the prisoners in a holistic sense. Within the theoretical-scientific framework of experiential learning, transformative learning, adult learning in prison and prison library, the library service was re-interpreted and organized, starting from the social library model, as a learning device capable of promoting self-directed-learning processes from a personal and organizational transformative perspective. Il potenziale formativo e trasformativo della biblioteca sociale in carcere. Il contribuito presenta gli esiti di una ricerca dottorale in cui l’attenzione si è focalizzata sul servizio bibliotecario penitenziario, riconosciuto come essenziale all’interno dei contesti penitenziari per supportare la crescita in senso olistico dei ristretti. All’interno del framework teorico-scientifico dell’experiential learning, del transformative learning, dell’adult learning in prison e della prison library, il servizio bibliotecario è stato re-interpretato e organizzato, a partire dal modello di biblioteca sociale, come un dispositivo formativo in grado di promuovere processi di auto-apprendimento in ottica trasformativa sia personale che dell’intera organizzazione penitenziaria.
... Educational services for prisoners play an important role for rehabilitation (Behan, 2014), reduction of recidivism (Cecil et al., 2000;Davis, 2013;Gordon & Weldon, 2003;Stephen & Linda, 2003;Vacca, 2004;Ward, 2009), and employment status after release (Alós, Esteban, Jódar & Miguélez, 2014;Brunton-Smith & Hopkins, 2014;Hunter & Boyce, 2009;Lawrence et al., 2002;Vacca, 2004). Indeed, the effects of prison education programs not only can be verified after inmate release, but during imprisonment by reducing disciplinary violations (Gerber & Fritsch, 1995) and tensions between inmates (Hunter & Boyce, 2009). ...
This research paper reports an investigation on the determinants of educational engagement among the whole Ecuadorian prison population as collected in the penitentiary census conducted in 2022. By employing a probit regression model, the analysis reveals distinct patterns: while age and ethnicity significantly influence participation among male inmates, environmental factors like overcrowding play a pivotal role for female prisoners. Moreover, higher levels of formal education negatively correlate with educational engagement across both genders. These findings underscore the need for targeted policies that address both individual and environmental barriers to educational participation within Ecuadorian prisons. By understanding these dynamics, policymakers can develop effective interventions to improve prison conditions and enhance rehabilitation outcomes, contributing to broader societal goals of justice and sustainable development.
... In contrast to vocational training, higher education fosters critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, empowering participants to change their lives and make positive contributions to their communities. Higher education serves as effective rehabilitation, reducing recidivism rates and promoting social reintegration (Davis, et al., 2013). Investing in higher education within prisons benefits individual learners but also contributes to building safer, more equitable societies. ...
The study examines organizational alignment and vocational-based rehabilitation of inmates in Edo Central senatorial District, Nigeria. It specifically examines the effects of strategic, structural and process alignment on vocational based rehabilitation of inmates. The study was guided by three research questions. A descriptive survey research design was adopted in the study. The population of the study comprised the 48 officers of Ubiaja Correctional Service in Edo State, Nigeria. The entire population of the study was used since it is a manageable size. Data was collected with a structured questionnaire designed by the researcher. The instrument was validated by professionals in the field of Measurement and Evaluation. 48 copies of the structured questionnaire were administered to the respondents, and 42 copies were correctly filled and returned. Data collected for the study was analysed with Mean and Standard Deviation. Analysis of the data collected revealed that strategic, structural, and process alignments have positive effects on vocational based rehabilitation. It was generally concluded that organizational alignment plays significant roles on vocational based rehabilitation. Thus, it was recommended that: Management of Correctional Service should align their vocational based rehabilitation strategies with the goals and objectives of the organization; management of Correctional Service should align their vocational based rehabilitation structure with the goals and objectives of the organization; and management of Correctional Service should align their vocational based rehabilitation process with the goals and objectives of the organization.
While there are significantly more men than women incarcerated in the U.S., women in the criminal justice system face distinct challenges and have a unique set of needs that frequently go unaddressed. This assessment reviews existing research about women’s pathways into the system and the challenges they face from arrest through reentry.
Although the increase in incarcerations has started to slow in recent years, over 1.2 million people are currently incarcerated in US prisons (Carson, 2023). Most incarcerated individuals will eventually be released. In this regard, the programs and experiences individuals encounter while incarcerated are intended to help them succeed post-release and reduce recidivism. Even with the programs currently in place though, 70% of those released reoffend within 5 years (U.S. Prison Population, 2019). Incarcerated individuals experience daily obstacles in obtaining the programs and services they need to be successful (Carson, 2022). These obstacles that residents (and all citizens) face are referred to as administrative burdens in the literature. Administrative burdens can be seen in many different processes; obtaining Medicaid, disability forms, taxes, financial aid, enrolling in foreclosure prevention programs, and so much more (Herd & Moynihan, 2020; Bell et al., 2022; Pierce & Moulton, 2023; Yates et al., 2021).
Influenced by European liberalization policies and reforms, Ukraine has made remarkable gains in decarcerating its population over the past two decades (Symkovych in British Journal of Criminology 58:200–217, 2018). A threefold decline has been recorded from 218,900 incarcerated people in 2000 to 48,038 in 2022, excluding the occupied territories of Crimea and Donbass World Prison Brief (World Prison Brief Data, 2023).
Every year, hundreds of thousands of jailed Americans leave prison and return to society. Largely uneducated, unskilled, often without family support, and with the stigma of a prison record hanging over them, many, if not most, will experience serious social and psychological problems after release. Fewer than one in three prisoners receive substance abuse or mental health treatment while incarcerated, and each year fewer and fewer participate in the dwindling number of vocational or educational pre-release programs, leaving many all but unemployable. Not surprisingly, the great majority is rearrested, most within six months of their release. As long as there have been prisons, society has struggled with how best to help prisoners reintegrate once released. But the current situation is unprecedented. As a result of the quadrupling of the American prison population in the last quarter century, the number of returning offenders dwarfs anything in America's history. A crisis looms, and the criminal justice and social welfare system is wholly unprepared to confront it. Drawing on dozens of interviews with inmates, former prisoners, and prison officials, the book shows us how the current system is failing, and failing badly. Unwilling merely to sound the alarm, it explores the harsh realities of prisoner re-entry and offers specific solutions to prepare inmates for release, reduce recidivism, and restore them to full citizenship, while never losing sight of the demands of public safety. As the number of ex-convicts in America continues to grow, their systemic marginalization threatens the very society their imprisonment was meant to protect.
Across the two post-prison employment outcome variables, several patterns of relationships emerged. First, local labor-market conditions, as measured by county unemployment rates, seem to matter by affecting the chances that ex-prisoners find jobs. In the analysis of the initial spell of unemployment, the marginal effect of county unemployment rates on the probability of exiting the initial spell was two percentage points; in the analysis of quarterly employment, the marginal effect reached six percentage points. County unemployment rates equally affected the postprison employment probabilities for offenders with no pre-prison employment and those with some pre-prison employment. Thus, in these Ohio data at least, the speculation that tight labor markets can improve employment opportunities for ex-prisoners finds some support. These findings are tentative, however. Despite the support for the central thesis-that local unemployment rates matter-the unemployment rates observed during much of this period were relatively low. This suggests that the results that were obtained may have come primarily from increases in unemployment leading to job loss, rather than the other way around. If the Ohio prisoners released during 1999 and 2000 benefited from the relatively tight labor-market conditions at the time, which have not been observed since 2000, then this period may represent the maximum gains for ex-prisoner employment that can be obtained from decreases in unemployment. This limitation can be studied by collecting data on post-prison employment experiences for longer periods of time. Once the original investment is made in linking corrections data to UI wage data, the marginal costs of obtaining additional years of data are small. Along these same lines, the use of UI wage data by corrections departments to track employment outcomes seems to be a plausible and relatively inexpensive method for obtaining outcome data on exprisoners. States that collect prisoners' social security numbers, such as Ohio, are in the position to develop relationships with their UI claims departments, and they can enter into computer record matching agreements that permit them to link offender records to the UI wage records. Such arrangements to obtain data can lead to the development of inexpensive, ongoing systems to monitor post-prison outcomes. They also can contribute to the development of research databases. To the extent that several states develop these systems, the various research databases can allow for comparative analyses of post-prison employment outcomes. The speculations about post-prison outcomes also highlight one limitation of this analysis: its reliance only on unemployment rates to mea sure local labor-market conditions. Future research should expand upon the measure of local labor-market conditions to include factors such as the size of the labor force, the sectoral composition, new job growth, wages, and other measures of the supply of and demand for labor. These analyses might give more clues as to whether and how exprisoners can be absorbed when labor markets are not as tight as they were throughout much of this period. Analyses of sectoral demand for labor, for example, can be accomplished by using the industry information in the UI wage records. A second finding is that the accumulation of pre-prison human capital- as indicated by pre-prison employment-seems to facilitate postprison employment. Ex-prisoners with as little as one-quarter of employment in the year prior to admission into prison exited their initial post-prison unemployment more quickly than offenders with no preprison employment during the year prior to admission, and their postprison employment probabilities were as much as 10 percent higher than those with no pre-prison employment. Third, the poor performance of prison programs in this analysis is perplexing and discouraging and merits additional work to better measure program outcomes. The negative outcomes for the vocation certificate recipients can be understood in terms of their role in the prison, the possibility of a spatial mismatch between the trades in which they are trained and local demands for these skills, and the discounting of prison labor by employers. To better understand the program participation outcomes, both better measures of program participation and different methods to isolate causal mechanisms are required. If the results found here were to hold after additional analyses, they would suggest that prison programming does little to enhance the capacity of offenders to compete in local labor markets unless these offenders already possess labor-market skills and experiences. For example, if prison vocation programs focus only on offenders who have prior work experiences, they not only "cream off" the offenders who are most likely to succeed but also fail to serve the majority of offenders who have little to no pre-prison labor-market experience. The combination of the findings about pre-prison employment and education experiences and the absence of findings of beneficial effects of prison program participation also suggest more generally that the current focus on prisoner reentry efforts may be somewhat misplaced, if it focuses too intently on what happens in prison to prepare offenders for release. Without discounting the importance of the need to prepare offenders for reentry, these analyses show that pre-prison work experience and education are much more important in determining postprison outcomes than what goes on in prison to prepare offenders for release. This perspective also suggests that broader labor-market poli cies can have beneficial effects, both for the general labor force and for ex-prisoners. Finally, post-prison supervision also turns out to be positively related to post-prison employment. Whether this arises from offenders' attempting to comply with conditions of supervision or from parole officers' efforts to locate jobs and help in the reintegration effort is not known. Even though states have turned away from using parolerelease decisions, there is still relatively widespread use of different forms of post-prison supervision. The Ohio (and Washington State) cases suggest that continuing to use some form of post-prison supervision can be beneficial in improving post-prison employment. The downside to post-prison supervision is exemplified by California, where more than two-thirds of prison admissions are of persons who have returned to prison due to technical violations of conditions of supervision. While the California case does refute the view that supervision can be beneficial, it suggests that the type and character of supervision may be important. In future research, administrative data such as that used in this paper needs to be supplemented with additional data on post-prison supervision experiences in order to better understand how supervision contributes to post-prison employment and recidivism outcomes.
The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of theory-based CAI for reading with incarcerated adults reading below the ninth grade level. The participants were offenders drawn from participating correctional centers in Oklahoma who were randomly assigned to a CAI or a non-CAI instructional group. Reading assessment instruments were administered on a pre-test/post-test basis. Results showed a significant reading achievement gain for computer-assisted reading instruction when compared to traditional instruction for entry levels of 0-3.0 Grade Equivalency Level (GEL). Higher entry levels showed approximately the same gain for both groups. These findings are consistent with a cognitive components model of reading.