191-007 Correctional Theory and Practice

Formerly available as 191-208/308. Students who have completed 191-208 or 191-308 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 25 points of first year criminology.

This subject is designed to introduce students to the major forms and structures of punishment in our society. The subject examines why we punish individuals, how we do so, and how the punishment process can be viewed in a wider social context. The first part of this subject considers the justifications for punishment and then specifically at prisons and the rapidly expanding area of community-based corrections. We then look at some 'hidden' groups in the punishment process - victims and women - before moving on to examine the work of major writers who have provided a theoretical critique of punishment and the role it plays in our society. By the end of the subject students should have a good understanding of the correctional system and be familiar with the work of important theorists like Foucault, Cohen and Hannah-Moffat.

• have considerable capacity for independent critical thought and self-directed learning;

• have significant cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;

• understand complex concepts and express them lucidly in writing and orally;

• have an ability to plan work and to use time effectively;

• have advanced awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications.

An essay of 2000 words 50% (due during the semester), a 1-hour class test of 1000 words 25% (due mid-semester) and a 1000 word take-home test 25% (due on the first day of the examination period).

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop