The Idea of an Essay, Volume 4

Research Writing 165 of Research and Evaluation. This report from the Federal Bureau of Prisons help provide official information about recidivism within the federal prison system. Unfortunately this data is from 1987, but the statistics and data is still helpful in analyzing the grave significance of recidivism within the United States. Kidder, R. (1990). Should schools pay the price of prison. Christian Science Monitor, 82(102), 13. This article provides a Christian viewpoint regarding education within prisons, arguing strongly that there is a clear link between illiteracy and crime, perhaps being the strongest link between individuals in corrections. Music, E. (2011). Teaching Literacy in Order to Turn the Page on Recidivism. Journal of Law & Education, 41(4), 723-730. This research provides an excellent big picture view of literacy’s effect on recidivism. It doesn’t focus on a particular study done, but rather more holistically how literacy effects correctional offenders thereby effecting recidivism. This research looks most at youth, claiming that illiterate youth that initially are incarcerated are often the repeat offenders. The study emphasizes the importance of a juvenile’s education continuing after they leave the correctional facility. The study also shows, that while literary training may be intense, it takes relatively little time to begin reading at an appropriate level. The research shows the additional benefits of correctional literacy programs, including lowering costs for taxpayers and building safer communities. Lastly, the piece asks for support from communities, recognizing it is crucial to the building and maintenance of these programs. Langan, P. A., & Levin, D. J. (2002). Recidivism of prisoners released in 1994. Federal Sentencing Reporter, 15(1), 58-65.