NCJ Number
101873
Date Published
1985
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This address reviews research sponsored by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) that is relevant to improving inmate education opportunities.
Abstract
Research conducted from 1981 to 1983 examined factors in inmates' educational deficiencies in nine State prisons in three States. The research recommended improving the number and quality of inmate educational programs and providing specialized training for teachers and counselors. A previous study surveyed educational programs for adult inmates in 12 States, concluding that education and work programs help inmates learn normative values and the rewards of a law abiding lifestyle. NIJ has promoted the involvement of the private sector in developing prison industries. One NIJ effort was the holding of the National Forum on Corrections and the Private Sector, which recommended the use of prison industries to reduce inmate idleness, decrease taxpayers' corrections costs, increase inmate restitution payments, and develop inmates' job skills and self-esteem. The conference also explored public-private partnerships to expand prison space, some of which would be used for education services, and to provide education and counseling.