A Profile and Perceived Needs of Wisconsin Correctional Educators

Abstract

While there has been plenty of research on the impact that education programs have on inmates and recidivism, there has been little research on correctional educators. Not only is there a lack of training available to and designed for correctional educators, but also a lack of direct involvement in planning such training. This study was focused on defining the demographics, background, and educational preparation of Wisconsin correctional educators. Additionally, evidence of self-identified training needs and the current working conditions was gathered. Of a total population (N) of 289 Wisconsin correctional educators, 141 or 60% participated in the study. The top skill identified as needing more training in was “Stay abreast of current trends in criminal justice and correctional education literature.” Correctional educators recommended improvements to specific needs in the classroom. They also cited a lack of support from administrators and asked for more communication and respect. Prison educators expressed more stress on a daily basis than jail educators. When asked about current working conditions, the majority of responses from prison educators were negative, while the majority of responses from jail educators were positive.