Assessing Future Justice Professionals: Experiential Learning of University Students

• In Event: Training and Professionalization of Correctional Staff

Abstract

Preparing students for the various roles of the criminal justice profession can be challenging in a classroom format in which students feel disconnected from skills, ideals, and values such as empathy, compassion, active listening, cultural humility, and professionalism. This study explores whether university students are better able to comprehend course content while acquiring valuable interpersonal skills through the implementation of experiential learning within real-world contexts. We explore whether students acquire new skills and gain a more realistic understanding of crime prevention practices and justice careers through structured mentoring interactions or community event interactions. Early data demonstrate a higher rate of student enthusiasm for the criminal justice field as well as an increased awareness of the variety career opportunities and improved appreciation and compassion for diverse communities.

Authors

• Silvina Ituarte, California State University, East Bay

• Garth Davies, Simon Fraser University