NCJ Number
75633
Journal
Canadian Vocational Journal Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: (1977) Pages: 8-12
Date Published
1977
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The first year and a half of the Nova Scotia Pilot Project in Corrections Education is described.
Abstract
The project was sponsored jointly by the Nova Scotia Department of Education, the Department of Manpower and Immigration, and the Canadian Penitentiary Service in response to the need for job training to help inmates become more employable, productive, and responsible citizens. The academic component of the educational program is the Basic Training for Skills Development program (BTSD). Curriculum material is available in communications, mathematics, and life-skills training; the program is based on performance and competency, with terminal behaviors clearly defined. The life skills training is designed to assist the clients in acquiring interpersonal problem-solving strategies and developing their educational, vocational, and personal potential. Skill development courses include instruction in welding, small gas engine maintenance and repair, drywall installation and repair, and machine woodworking. The curriculum material and teaching methodology for all instructional programs within the project are identical to those employed in other Nova Scotia adult vocational training activity modules, thus facilitating continuation of the educational program outside the penitentiary. Inmates completing a training program are issued a certificate identical to that awarded in other provincial adult vocational training programs. The Canada Manpower Counsellor is responsible for coordinating the various aspects of inmate employability and the development of career-consciousness among inmates. Evaluation of the program is incomplete, but data have been gathered on staff and inmate opinions about the program, inmate characteristics and training needs, inmate academic performance measures, and followup studies based on postrelease employment records. One reference is included.