Discussion 2: Policy Project Check-In
Many challenges can arise when starting an in-depth research project. These challenges can range from locating enough material on your chosen topic to narrowing down a large number of potential resources. To overcome these challenges, you may need to reevaluate and revise your initial research strategies. You may also benefit from sharing your challenges with your colleagues. While you may have chosen topics specific to your own background and interests, you and your colleagues may be experiencing similar research challenges. By collaborating with your colleagues, you may be able to find a solution to a common challenge.

For this Discussion, review the Learning Resources and reflect on your progress to date. Consider challenges you have experienced while evaluating the research applicable to your project.

Post challenges you have encountered completing Part 2 of the Policy Project. Explain any changes you might make with regard to your search techniques. Additionally, post a potential question for your colleagues about your research findings to date.

Required Resources
Readings
Wilson, J. Q., & Petersilia, J. (2011). Crime and public policy. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.
Chapter 16, “Sentencing” (pp. 467–498)

The chapter explores sentencing policies and the ways in which they are applied across various states. It highlights the impact of these different policies on sentencing practices. The chapter closes with recommendations for goals of sentencing policy reform.
Chapter 17, “Community Corrections: Probation, Parole, and Prisoner Reentry” (pp. 499–531)

The chapter highlights current challenges faced by many community corrections programs. These include lack of support and funding and high-recidivism rates. It also highlights notable exceptions of successful programs that have adopted approaches that differ from the norm.
Bureau of Justice Statistics. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://bjs.ojp.usdoj.gov/ 

This webpage contains graphic displays of criminal and corrections trends.
Newsbatch. (2009). Death penalty. Retrieved from http://www.newsbatch.com/deathpenalty.htm

This web page contains an article that examines the use of the death penalty though 2009 from a socio-historical perspective as well as provides links to other resources on the topic.
University at Albany, Hindelang Criminal Justice Research Center. (2013). Sourcebook of criminal justice statistics. Retrieved from http://www.albany.edu/sourcebook/

This site provides a variety of statistics on criminal justice topics and trends.
Document: Policy Project Overview (PDF)