NCJ Number
140193
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 43 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1992) Pages: 118-122
Date Published
1992
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The authors propose a different approach to correctional education research in which qualitative research can be organized and conducted by field practitioners to result in more effective programming for at-risk and incarcerated youth.
Abstract
Both qualitative and quantitative research models represent legitimate forms of scientific inquiry. The quantitative model was developed in the biological and physical sciences, while the qualitative model emerged from the social sciences. More interest in qualitative research at the practitioner level will allow correctional educators to form their own educational strategies for use with at- risk populations in the correctional setting. With qualitative research, correctional educators can learn more about life experiences affecting their clients and thus relate this information to more effective program planning. Moreover, correctional educators can determine how learning in the corrections setting will likely affect learners in other settings and thereby help in transition programming. Qualitative research methodologies include case studies and surveys that involve interviews, documentary analysis, and trend studies. The goal of correctional education research is to help youth succeed in the correctional environment and in the community setting. An attachment provides additional information on conducting qualitative research in correctional education. 20 references