Program Overview
Since 1998, the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) has administered a project funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) to provide training and technical assistance to improve community corrections practices. Since many probation and parole officers work in rural jurisdictions and often face barriers in attending traditional training events, the information is presented through distance-learning methodologies.

During the first phase of this project APPA planned and presented 11 audio teleconferences. Participants attended the event using only a telephone connection. Toll free access to the audio conference was provided, and there was no cost to registrants to participate. Each audio conference was 90 minutes long and consisted of a presentation by an authority in the field and an opportunity for the presenter to respond to questions from the participants. An informational packet that included printed material to accompany the audio presentation was provided to each participant. Each audio teleconference was reproduced on audio tapes and distributed, along with the accompanying written information, as requested.

During the second phase of this project, APPA produced a web-based workshop on safety issues for probation and parole officers. That workshop is available free to probation and parole practitioners and other interested parties who register. Read more about the workshop.

Each audio teleconference is recorded, and the synchronized audio and webcast along with all accompanying written materials are available free online. You will need Windows Media Player and audio capability on your computer to access the presentations.

If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact:

Pat Bancroft, Research Associate
APPA
PO Box 11910
Lexington, KY 40578-1910
(voice) 859-244-8197
(fax) 859-244-8001
(e-mail) pbancroft@csg.org