Objective 7: Develop training, resources, and communities of practice to implement standards
Advancing Data in Corrections Summer Conference?
In August, CSG Justice Center staff hosted the Advancing Data in Corrections Summer Conference in Nashville. The conference consisted of multiple panels from correctional leaders, a case study completed by the analysts and research directors, along with CSG Justice Center research staff, a panel from the resident corrections analysts, and networking opportunities for attendees. 45 states were represented at the conference. Additionally, CSG Justice Center staff presented at the Correctional Leaders Association (CLA) conference to discuss the importance of data-driven decision-making in corrections and how the Advancing Data in Corrections is helping agencies build data literacy and analytic capabilities. Lastly, CSG Justice Center staff presented at the American Correctional Association's (ACA) conference about Virtual Academy and the Resident Corrections Analysts (RCA) initiative.
There were 31 responses to the post-conference questionnaire with favorable results. 26 of 31 respondents indicated their knowledge level increased during the conference. 26 of 31 respondents indicated the conference was useful. 25 of 31 respondents indicated the conference was satisfactory or better. Some of the feedback received includes:
"I loved the sessions on the tools in R, the panel discussion with the Directors, and the Directors of Research and Analysis."
"It is empowering to know that many users are facing the same challenges. I enjoyed seeing what R suite can produce. I especially enjoyed learning about the RCA program."
"I really liked the breakout groups working on different situations. It was interesting to see the different approaches by different analysts. I also found the presentations very valuable, especially with regards to predictive models."
Report and Model Code Repositories?
In August, CSG Justice Center staff received approval from BJA to launch the model code repository, which was released on August 13, 2024. The Virtual Academy Model Code Repository gives corrections analysts access to a variety of code templates written in the R statistical programming language to improve data analytic efficiency and accuracy. This repository includes code to help reduce time spent compiling reports, tables, and visualizations. Additionally, all templates encourage reproducibility to prevent data discrepancies and simplify common time-consuming tasks. Additionally, CSG Justice Center staff began contacting state DOC research departments requesting permission to host their reports on the report repository.
Community Forum and Office Hours?
In August, 94 corrections professionals from 36 states and Washington, DC registered for the forum. CSG Justice Center staff held office hours on August 6 and 20.
On August 6, 14 corrections professionals attended office hours from Connecticut, Kansas, and Washington, DC. The discussion focused on how to triage data related questions from the public.
On August 20, nine corrections professionals attended office hours from Nebraska, Missouri, and Washington, DC. The discussion focused on how agencies feel about the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in jails and prisons, and how Nebraska will be reintegrating probation and parole under one umbrella.
Seminar Series
CSG Justice Center staff continued planning for the first Seminar Series which will be held on September 18. The goal of the seminar series is to connect with corrections professionals at various levels of experience to enhance capacity for data analysis across the country and equip agencies with tools to implement data-driven strategies.
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