Course Number and Title:
CRJ 118 Corrections in America
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: CRJ 101
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
3 lecture hours/week
0 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course introduces the American corrections system, including the history and evolution of the system as well as current philosophies and practices.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Describe the historical development of the correctional system in America. (CCC 1, 4; PGC 1, 2, 4)
- Describe the social structures of prison life. (CCC 1, 4, 3; PGC 1, 4, 5)
- Identify and recognize different philosophies of corrections. (CCC 1, 2, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5)
- Describe Delaware's Sentencing Accountability Commission (SENTAC) levels and truth in sentencing. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 2, 4, 5)
- Explain the theory and practice of probation and parole. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
- Identify basic procedures in case management. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Describe the historical development of the correctional system in America.
- Discuss historical perspectives of the correctional system in America.
- Describe the social structures of prison life.
- Discuss current inmate population and statistics and how they influence the inmate social system.
- Discuss current demographic features of inmates such as educational level, race, sex, and drug use.
- Identify and recognize different philosophies of corrections.
- Discuss and differentiate the goals of sentencing.
- Explain intermediate sanctions.
- Explain diversionary sentences.
- Explain educational components of correctional services.
- Explain institutional and community-based rehabilitation and habilitation.
- Explain victimology.
- Identify the hiring requirements for institutional careers.
- Describe Delaware's Sentencing Accountability Commission (SENTAC) levels and truth in sentencing.
- Describe each SENTAC level.
- List conditions possible for each SENTAC level.
- List duties of correctional agents for each level.
- Discuss the implications of truth in sentencing.
- Explain the theory and practice of probation and parole.
- Identify and explain rehabilitation and habilitation.
- List the minimum qualifications for probation and parole.
- Identify the responsibilities of the probation officer.
- Identify the dual role of the probation officer.
- Define the standards of professional ethics and responsibilities toward the offender, the community, and society.
- Identify community resources for primary and secondary prevention approaches.
- Discuss Delaware's parole function.
- Identify basic procedures in case management.
- Define case management.
- Identify core functions of case management.
- Identify the various treatment programs available in modern correctional facilities.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
|
Evaluation Measure
|
Percentage of final grade
|
|
Summative: Exam (4) (equally weighted)
|
60%
|
|
Formative: Quizzes, assignments, reflections, presentations (equally weighted)
|
40%
|
|
TOTAL
|
100%
|
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
CRJAASCRJ
- Discuss criminal justice professionalism in the performance of duties.
- Articulate the function and interaction of criminal justice agencies and organizations.
- Explain interviewing, counseling, and crisis intervention techniques with diverse criminal justice populations.
- Apply knowledge of causation and correction to juvenile and adult offenders.
- Describe the legal principles and practices of criminal and constitutional law.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.