Evaluation of Staff Training in Colloquial Spanish, Hispanic History and Culture

• NCJ Number: 111502
• Author(s): R L Fisher
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 23 pages
• Corporate Author: New York State Dept of Correctional Services
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This report discusses the effectiveness of a training program in colloquial Spanish conversation, nonverbal communication skills, and the history and culture of Latin American nations for correctional security staff who work with Hispanic inmates.

Abstract

The 134 participants were surveyed upon completion of the course. Of the total group, 75.4 percent returned the questionnaires. The overall program and five segments in the training session were evaluated. Participants were asked to respond to eight questions for each session. Seven of which were formulated in Likert styles. Results indicate that 93 percent of the attendees responding to the survey instrument gave the overall training session a favorable assessment. Results indicate that those who already had some prior exposure to a Romance language benefited most from the Spanish language training. Although trainees found the Hispanic history component informative, they suggested that the lectures include more material relevant to their work. Multicultural and security issues were favorably evaluated by the majority of respondents. 9 tables.