Evidence-based practice is becomingly increasingly important in the corrections field. If your agency is interested in building knowledge and skills in this area, contact me to discuss further development of this proposal.

1. Evidence-Based Practices for Corrections Professionals
Course Series
Purpose
The purpose of the Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) for Corrections Professionals series of
courses is to help current or aspiring correctional staff develop critical knowledge and skills
shown through research to be effective at helping offenders make positive changes.
Audience
The audience for this type of program is broad. Individuals who are just entering the corrections
field, or who have an interest in entering it, can gain knowledge that will make them more
attractive to potential employers when seeking entry-level positions. More seasoned correctional
staff can also benefit from this program by building on their experiences and adding key
knowledge that may help them gain a promotion or otherwise advance their careers.
Correctional administrators or leaders can also benefit from this program by gaining a broader
perspective of correctional practice, which may have a positive influence on policy development
in correctional organizations.
Overarching Objectives
After completion of all elements of the program, participants will be able to:

articulate a thorough knowledge of the Eight Principles of Effective Intervention;

understand the principles and practices of Motivational Interviewing and how those apply
to interactions with correctional clients;

apply the essential elements of correctional assessment, including the use of researchbased assessment tools;

Design an effective and defensible intervention case plan for working with correctional
clients.
Description
The program consists of four self-paced courses, one for each of the four objectives listed
above. Each course will include its own set of objectives, as well as lecture notes that address
each objective, web links to publicly available media (web sites, videos, government
documents) specific research articles (if available in the public domain or by agreement with the
publisher), and assessments of learning. A book or books will be assigned for each course as
well that covers either the philosophical basis of the course content or that provides practical
information to deepen understanding.
Process
The courses can be sequenced so that each builds on prior learning. For example, an
understanding of the Eight Principles of Effective Intervention provides a context for
understanding the principles and practices of Motivational Interviewing. Likewise,
understanding motivational concepts underlies the use of assessment tools, which in turn
contributes to the development of effective and defensible case plans.
For questions or further information, please contact Bob Cameron via e-mail at
bobcameronPhD@gmail.com, or by calling 612-223-6560