Assessment of Computer-Based Instruction Use in Criminal Justice Education Programs

Abstract

The major purpose of this study was to assess the extent to which computer-based instruction is being used nationally in criminal justice education programs. Although some published studies have been performed with computer-based instruction in criminal justice training environments, little knowledge exists concerning the extent to which computer-based instruction is used in traditional academic environments. A self-administered mail survey, utilizing a sampling frame consisting of a directory of criminal justice educators, assessed the extent to which computer-based instruction is being used nationally in criminal justice education programs. The results of this survey: present concerned criminal justice educators an opportunity to examine computer-based instruction applications in criminal justice education settings by providing a basis for comparing individual programs to some national norm; reveal that a less than optimum use of computer-based instruction exists in criminal justice education programs; and suggest possible remedial measures for increasing the development and usage of computer-based instruction.