Module 5: Types of Correctional Facilities

In this module, we focus on various types of correctional facilities at the federal, state and local levels. You will explore various types of programming employed by the federal system and custody levels utilized by states. This module encourages critical thought related to the procedures used at the local level to house pretrial detainees awaiting trial and offenders sentenced to short terms of confinement. 

Image source: “prison guard tower” by Rennett Stowe, CC BY 2.0 

1. Understand the role of federal, state, and local facilities.
2. Explore the characteristics of prisons of various security levels.
3. Examine Louisiana's utilization of state and local facilities.

To achieve these objectives:

1. Read the Module 5 Introduction.

2. Read Chapter 5 in Introduction to Corrections.

3. Complete the following activities in this module:

   • Module 5 Discussion: Compare and contrast federal and state correctional facilities.

   • Module 5 Assignment: Research and summarize one Louisiana correctional facility (state, local, or private), describing its custody level and population characteristics.

   • Module 5 Quiz: Assess your understanding of correctional facility types and security levels.

Each activity is designed to reinforce foundational correctional knowledge and build skills in research, critical thinking, and written communication—key competencies in the criminal justice field.

Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities

You will find the following resources and activities in this module at the Pressbooks website. Click on the links below to access or complete each item.