Introduction Research Major Evaluation Findings Enhanced Practices Overall Lessons Conclusion Lessons Learned from the PA DOC’s Recidivism Reduction Efforts: Experiences in Implementing Evidence-Based, Research-Driven Practices Jeffrey A. Beard, Ph.D. Secretary of Corrections Pennsylvania Department of Corrections American Society of Criminology Annual Meeting: “Criminology & Criminal Justice Policy” November 6, 2009 Marriott Downtown Philadelphia, PA
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Introduction Research Major Evaluation Findings Enhanced Practices Overall Lessons Conclusion Lessons Learned from the PA DOC’s Recidivism Reduction Efforts:
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Introduction
Research
Major Evaluation Findings
Enhanced Practices
Overall Lessons
Conclusion
Lessons Learned from the PA DOC’s Recidivism Reduction Efforts:
Experiences in Implementing Evidence-Based, Research-Driven Practices
Jeffrey A. Beard, Ph.D.Secretary of Corrections
Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
American Society of Criminology Annual Meeting:“Criminology & Criminal Justice Policy”
November 6, 2009Marriott DowntownPhiladelphia, PA
Introduction
Research
Major Evaluation Findings
Enhanced Practices
Overall Lessons
Conclusion
Why Follow Evidence-Based Practice? Why Is Research Important?
Maintaining the safety of our communities requires smart, fiscally responsible public policy and effective practices
Traditionally, CJS policy has been fueled by subjective information
Public fear & emotion following isolated incidents, myths/distorted perceptions regarding crime rate, prevalence of certain problems, etc.
Common/traditional/preferred response – heavy reliance on incarceration
population growth in unrelenting - “1 in 31” (Pew)
fiscal impact has been tremendous - nearly $30 billion by 2011 (Pew)
creates roadblocks to reentry (stigma, job, housing, social ties, etc.)
recidivism - 68% arrested for new crime within 3 yrs of release (BJS)
Research informs objective policy-making & guides cost-effective practice
Provides objective evidence necessary to debunk myths/perceptions
Ensures limited resources are allocated wisely, most efficiently & effectively
Supports the rehabilitative ideal, “treatment works”…if done correctly
Introduction
Research
Major Evaluation Findings
Enhanced Practices
Overall Lessons
Conclusion
How Has Research Been Used In Our Agency? Active agenda for evaluating quality & effectiveness of programs
Employ “Program Evaluation Research System (PERS)” Model
Internally identify evaluation and research needs for a particular program
Partner with external (objective) evaluator (university) with interest & expertise in area
External evaluator seeks third party funding to support evaluation activities
Develop evaluation plan in cooperation with research partner
Conduct evaluation and utilize results to enhance programs
Results of PERS Model Over Past 11 Years (2008 Innovation Award, CSG):
leveraged $3.5 million in external funding (18 major grant awards)
provided high quality, objective, policy-relevant research on PA DOC programs
justify budget request, demonstrate fiscal accountability to taxpayers