NCJ Number
121668
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 40 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1989) Pages: 116-118
Date Published
1989
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This report is a study of the use of computerized learning laboratories describing two years of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and the results of 8,677 participants.
Abstract
Short term involvement and high turnover characterizes Ohio's prerelease program. Nearly every adult felon-male and female-was sent to Ohio's centralized prerelease center for six weeks job readiness training before their release during the period of review. Computer-assisted instruction was established at three laboratory sites utilizing the Adult Performance Level and Comprehensive Competencies Programs. The first year of operation identified integral program changes that yielded improved participant gains. A participant screening criteria was added to the second year of the program, and the classes were reduced in size from 25-30 to 15-20 per learning laboratory. These changes were instrumental in improving: (1) the percentage of those who completed the program from 28 percent to 63 percent the second program year, and (2) the level of learning gains by participants that averaged 19.9 percent in the short term program. This report concludes computers are essential for testing, assessment, scheduling, instruction, and record keeping. They are also important educational tools for positive instruction when appropriate screening criteria are part of the program used in conjunction with enthusiastic and resourceful instructors. 2 tables, 6 references. (Author abstract)