Seminar in Corrections                              Dusable 206
Instructor: Jim Thomas                              Northern Ilinois University
Spring, 2000                                        Thursday, 6-8:40
 
                              SYLLABUS
 
This course will critically examine the philosophy and origins of the
corrections system in the U.S., the contemporary "prison crisis,"
the social organization of the prison culture, and the prospects for
the future. Although a "corrections" course, special attention will
be given to the social and historical context of prisons. Examples
will focus heavily on Illinois prisons.
 
Course Requirements.
 
The course is intended as a seminar in which everybody participates
through discussion.  Grades will be assessed on the basis of class 
discussion, oral presentations, and one final research paper.
Oral presentations will be done in groups of two or three on specific
readings.
 
Assigned Readings.
 
  Michael Foucault         DISCIPLINE AND PUNISH
  James Jacobs             STATEVILLE
  Morris and Tonries       Between Prison and Probation
  John Irwin               JAILS
  Jeffrey Reiman           And the Poor get Prison
  Danny Martin             Committing Journalism
  Sherryl Kleiman          Opposing Ambitions
  Library Readings         TBA
  Class Handouts           TBA
 
GRADING

   Class presentations (2) (100 points (50 points EACH)
   Final term paper  (150 points)
   Class participation (100 points)
   Short paper (one) (50 points)
   Varied assignments (100 points)
   Pop quizzes (if necessary/as needed - part of class participation)
   _____________
   TOTAL = 600

It may sometimes be necessary to  change the course assignments listed
on the assignments page.  These changes will be announced, and you are
responsible for knowing what goes on in class.

NOTE:  I reserve  the right to alter the course  requirements if it
appears that  people are  not doing  the assigned  readings.  This
alteration will take the form of adding  a midterm and/or a final exam
IN ADDITION TO the existing requirements.  If this occurs,  each exam
would be worth 100 points.

Final papers must be turned in no later than May 4, 2000.

Course Assignments and Readings

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