Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

School

Education

Advisor

Sara Inkpen

Abstract

Recidivism in a community-based correctional facility (CBCF) was high. The average recidivism rate was 32.7%; however, in a Northeast Midwest U.S. state, the CBCF was 44%. The purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to examine the effects of three educational curricula on recidivism at one CBCF. The Positive Reentry for Midwestern State Offenders certificate courses (vocational), the credit-bearing courses (college), the ASPIRE General Education Degree (GED), and no additional courses taken were tested on their predictive power of recidivism. The theoretical framework was Hirschi’s social bond theory. A binomial logistic regression was conducted to determine the effects of each curriculum and no course taken on the likelihood that participants will or will not recidivate. The logistic regression model was statistically significant, χ2(3) = 10.23, p = .017. The model explained 2.9% (Nagelkerke R2) of the variance in recidivism. Of the three predictor variables compared to no courses taken, those taking college courses were 2 times more likely to recidivate, and there was no significant difference for those who took GED or vocational courses. A policy paper was written, which included recommendations to join the Midwestern State Penal Education Consortium and study other services that reduce recidivism. These recommendations could promote positive social change for stakeholders involved in identifying effective strategies for lowering the recidivism rate and contributing to more productive members of society.

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