NCJ Number
75210
Date Published
1977
Length
255 pages
Annotation
A study was done to determine North Carolina inmates' vocational education and training needs, parolees' and ex-offenders' employment opportunities, and available vocational education and training resources.
Abstract
A survey was conducted of inmates at 17 correctional units for adults and youths to ascertain vocational education needs. Estimates of parolee or ex-offender job opportunities were obtained by adjusting North Carolina Bureau of Employment Research employment projections and by examining employer hiring practice and legal employment barriers. A questionnaire was developed to determine vocational education program offerings of community colleges and private trade, technical, and vocational schools. Study results showed that (1) although 90 percent of inmates indicated an interest in taking vocational courses while in prison, less than 9 percent were enrolled in such courses; and (2) although automotive mechanics was the most frequently chosen option, only 9 of 77 prison facilities offered training in this area. Food service, chosen by only 1 out of 9 inmates, was the most frequently offered; and most job openings were in industrial service, office, and construction occupations. Vocational education in North Carolina's correctional population was found to be unstructured, uncoordinated, and incomplete, due mainly to an absence of policies, clearly stated goals, top level commitment, and firm budgetary support. Study recommendations focus on the establishment of statewide policy concerning vocational education and on specific activities which would gear vocational education to employment opportunities. Over 150 references, organizational charts, survey material, an assessment of vocational training opportunities, and inmate comments concerning vocational training are appended. Tabular data are also provided.