Rapid Evidence Assessment of Offender Learning in Prisons

• In Event: Prison Education

Abstract

Prison education is part of rehabilitative efforts within prisons. A key measure of the success of prison education has been recidivism and employment levels of those who have engaged in education whilst in prison. This paper presents the findings of a Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) and subsequent meta-analysis conducted to investigate what is known about the impact of prison education on these outcomes. Of the 4,300 abstracts reviewed, there were 28 studies which met the inclusion criteria, and 18 studies published between 1995 and 2015 which had appropriate data to be included in the meta-analysis, 17 of which relate to studies conducted in North America. Findings indicate an overall positive impact of education on recidivism. However, findings are less robust with respect to impact on employment, with fewer studies identified for meta-analysis and mixed outcomes. The presentation also discusses the quality of studies available in this area and the difficulties and limitations of measuring outcome as recidivism or employment.

Authors

• Mark Ellison, Manchester Metropolitan University

• Kirstine Szifris, Manchester Metropolitan University / University of Cambridge

• Rachel Horan, The Averment Group Ltd.

• Chris Fox, Manchester Metropolitan University