Essential to offender success is the efficacy of programming offered by the DOC and its partners. Research has shown that, absent an evidence-based intervention, an individual is no less likely to commit a crime upon his or her release from prison. Prison itself does not change behavior. Evidence-based programming is programming that has been shown to work. Rather than relying on a provider’s gut instincts or anecdotes about offenders who have turned their lives around, evidence-based programs (EBP) rely on research that demonstrates a program is effective.

This approach requires rigorous quality assurance and evaluation to ensure that evidence-based programs are implemented with fidelity, and that new programs are evaluated to determine their effectiveness. The department uses the Correctional Program Checklist (CPC) to evaluate whether programming is rooted in best practices. A commitment to evidence-based programs requires defined outcomes that can be measured, such as recidivism and victim satisfaction.

• adopt an evidence-based program evaluation tool that measures how closely correctional programs meet the known principles of effective intervention
• conduct regular evaluations of programs operated by or under a contract with the department
• develop and maintain a list of evidence-based treatment curriculums to be utilized in programs operated by or under contract with the department, with priority being placed on adopting treatment curriculums that are in the public domain and evidence-based

Correctional Program Checklist