CJ: Realities and Challenges empowers students to think critically about the daily realities and challenges of the criminal justice system. Using the text's framework of Observe Investigate Understand, students learn to recognize the myths of the U.S. criminal justice system and gain a greater comprehension of its complexities. The program brings together the insights of an expert author team of practitioners and scholars to present a contemporary and realistic perspective on a vital U.S. institution. With Connect for Criminal Justice, a ground breaking digital learning platform, students study more effectively by using engaging activities to confirm what they know and to learn what they don t know. The new Connect course includes SmartBook, which encourages readers to apply their knowledge to real world scenarios, building the foundation for successful careers in criminal justice. Instructors and students can now access their course content through the Connect digital learning platform by purchasing either standalone Connect access or a bundle of print and Connect access. McGraw-Hill Connect(r) is a subscription-based learning service accessible online through your personal computer or tablet. Choose this option if your instructor will require Connect to be used in the course. Your subscription to Connect includes the following: SmartBook(r) - an adaptive digital version of the course textbook that personalizes your reading experience based on how well you are learning the content. Access to your instructor s homework assignments, quizzes, syllabus, notes, reminders, and other important files for the course. Progress dashboards that quickly show how you are performing on your assignments and tips for improvement. The option to purchase (for a small fee) a print version of the book. This binder-ready, loose-leaf version includes free shipping. Complete system requirements to use Connect can be found here: http: //www.mheducation.com/highered/platform..."
This is one of the better textbooks that I have encountered in my undergraduate studies. The information is posted in nice and interesting bits, drawing attention to things like technology and disconnects in the criminal justice system.
Sometimes I feel like the chapters are just a bit too long and detailed, but for the most part most of the information in the book was very readable and not to difficult to remain focused on.
I did not read every chapter in this book, but I did read most of them and I would recommend this book to people who are looking for a little more information on the criminal justice system if they want to know more and don't want to or can't take a class.
While largely factual and educational, sections of this book were misleading and further contribute to stigmatizing stereotypes of mental illness and offenders.