Morehead State University
Racing Towards the Finish: Youth and Greyhounds Learn Together, a Juvenile Justice Model for Success
Institution
Morehead State University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Kimberly Peterson
Abstract
Learning models in juvenile justice are traditionally difficult to evaluate. More specifically, the effects of the presence of animals on learning are not well documented. In this regional engagement project between a state university, a state department of juvenile justice and a greyhound adoption agency, female youth in a residential juvenile justice center learn vocational and technical skills while training retired racing greyhounds to become family pets. Through an ongoing series of 12 week learning cycles, greyhounds learn home and obedience skills that may enhance adoption success. In addition to training activities, youth explore animal careers and learn important job skills through classroom and laboratory activities. A daily journal of youth experiences with their greyhounds is utilized to prepare publications of original works. Veterinary Technology students gain proficiency through a service learning curriculum which provides wellness care for the greyhounds and career modeling for the youth. Current findings suggest: improved academic success, increased self-efficacy; 53% decrease in reportable incidents; a decrease in adoption failure and euthanasia of dogs. This study suggests sustainability as a model for other youth facilities.
Racing Towards the Finish: Youth and Greyhounds Learn Together, a Juvenile Justice Model for Success
Learning models in juvenile justice are traditionally difficult to evaluate. More specifically, the effects of the presence of animals on learning are not well documented. In this regional engagement project between a state university, a state department of juvenile justice and a greyhound adoption agency, female youth in a residential juvenile justice center learn vocational and technical skills while training retired racing greyhounds to become family pets. Through an ongoing series of 12 week learning cycles, greyhounds learn home and obedience skills that may enhance adoption success. In addition to training activities, youth explore animal careers and learn important job skills through classroom and laboratory activities. A daily journal of youth experiences with their greyhounds is utilized to prepare publications of original works. Veterinary Technology students gain proficiency through a service learning curriculum which provides wellness care for the greyhounds and career modeling for the youth. Current findings suggest: improved academic success, increased self-efficacy; 53% decrease in reportable incidents; a decrease in adoption failure and euthanasia of dogs. This study suggests sustainability as a model for other youth facilities.