Course Number and Title:
CRJ 218 Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
Prerequisites
CRJ 118 and CRJ 220 and CRJ 231 and CRJ 226
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
3 lecture hours/week
0 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course explores current and emerging issues that impact the criminal justice system. Topics examined include mass incarceration, racial disparities, police-community relations, gun violence and juvenile justice reform. Emphasis is placed on the influence of social movements, political and legal changes, and technological advancements. Critical evaluation of justice policies, ethical dilemmas and the role of culturally competent, trauma informed practices are explored.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
Examine contemporary issues in criminal justice. (CCC 2, 5; PGC 1, 2)
Evaluate the impact of social, political, and technological changes on the criminal justice system. (CCC 2, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2)
Analyze criminal justice policies, practices, and reforms. (CCC 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 3)
Analyze case studies and current events to understand real-world applications. (CCC 1, 2, 5; PGC 1, 4)
Evaluate the role of ethics, cultural competence, and trauma-informed practices in addressing contemporary criminal justice issues. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4; PGC 3, 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:
- Examine contemporary issues in criminal justice.
- Examine current issues and trends in criminal justice, such as mass incarceration, racial disparities, substance use, juvenile justice reform, mental health and justice system intersections, and police accountability.
- Compare multiple perspectives on contemporary criminal justice issues using relevant research.
- Evaluate the impact of social, political, and technological changes on the criminal justice system.
- Evaluate how advancements in technology—such as surveillance tools, digital evidence, and predictive policing—affect criminal justice practices, considering both benefits and potential drawbacks.
- Evaluate the impact of social movements and the identification of racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
- Evaluate the impact of political and legal changes, including the intersection of addiction, crime and law enforcement.
- Analyze criminal justice policies, practices, and reforms.
- Analyze how criminal justice policies and procedures are developed through constitutional law, statutes, and regulatory frameworks.
- Analyze how laws and practices are modified through legislative, judicial, and administrative processes.
- Analyze case studies and current events to understand real-world applications.
- Analyze news coverage, media reports, and public commentary related to contemporary criminal justice issues.
- Analyze diverse perspectives related to current events and issues.
- Interpret data and research findings to analyze a current issue in criminal justice.
- Evaluate the role of ethics, cultural competence, and trauma-informed practices in addressing contemporary criminal justice issues.
- Evaluate common ethical dilemmas that arise in criminal justice contexts.
- Analyze how culturally competent approaches influence outcomes for individuals and communities within the justice system.
- Evaluate how trauma-informed approaches contribute to more effective and humane responses to justice-involved individuals.
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 | Grade |
Summative Assessments |
Exams (2-3) (equally weighted ) | 30% |
Criminal Justice Reform Research Paper/Presentation | 10% |
Ethical Dilemma Roundtable | 10% |
Current Event Media Critique | 10% |
Formative Assessments |
The course will contain various formative assessments, including but not limited to: Quizzes Assignments Career research Journals Discussion boards
| 40% |
Total | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
- Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and homeland security.
- Analyze causes of adult and juvenile crime.
- Explain the importance of professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills in the field of criminal justice.
- Apply skills needed in investigation, report writing, and crisis intervention.
- Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to criminal justice, including cultural competence and trauma-informed care.
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.