Research is often defined as careful consideration of a study regarding a particular concern or problem using scientific methods. Fortunately, for the past three decades, there has been a growing movement among criminologists and corrections practitioners to discern the principles of effective intervention and in deciphering what interventions have empirical support. The field has been significantly changed and much improved with the term and use of “evidence-based practices”, especially in the areas of probation, parole, and pretrial services. The following resources will provide studies in a variety of topics for practitioners from applications, policies, and practices that show promising results.

• Impact Evidence 

  Data documenting the effects of actions and whether desired objectives and goals have been reached.

• Implementation Science 

  When applied in a criminal justice context, as with other human services settings, implementation science ‘incorporates three frameworks: 1) intervention components, 2) implementation drivers, and 3) implementation states.” When applied and continuously adjusted with new data, each framework increases opportunities for achieving desired outcomes in community supervision practice.

• Evidence-Based Practices 

  Evidence-based practices (EBP) applied in correctional settings are built upon empirical research and data rather than generally depending upon anecdotal experience and perceptions. Agencies must define desired yet realistic, measurable outcomes in applying EBP in case management and of persons under supervision.

• Assessment Tools and Their Uses 

  Validated actuarial tools used to identify an individual's risk, need, and strengths to guide decision-making in case management and community supervision processes. v

• Fidelity 

  Fidelity is critical to ensure effective correctional practice. Within an evidence-based context, it ensures accurate and reliable information and data that is valid and replicable over time and in other settings. Fidelity asks, "Does the innovation adhere to the original design throughout delivery?"