Examining the Effects of Moderating Factors on the Relationship Between Arkansas Correctional Education and Recidivism

• In Event: Impacts on Adult Education and Adult Education Impact

Abstract

We investigated how completion of adult correctional education programs (GED and Vocational Certificates) in Arkansas affected inmate recidivism, as well as how sociodemographic factors, offense characteristics, and completion of ancillary education programs moderated those effects. We examined all releases from Arkansas correctional facilities between 2005 and 2013 of adults who at intake failed to verify a GED or high school diploma (N = 32,174). Findings showed that GED and VOC program completion increased the odds of remaining out of incarceration longer. Completion of select ancillary programs moderated this effect among GED completers. Older adults, Black adults, and adults with more serious offenses benefited more from completing a GED program while incarcerated. Implications for research and policy are discussed.

Authors

• Kevin M Roessger, University of Arkansas

• Xinya Liang, University of Arkansas

• James D Weese, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville