Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) Resources

  • CCAPPOAP and PPCJI have compiled a comprehensive set of resources for practitioners and stakeholders to assist with understanding and implementing EBP. We work closely with subject matter experts to bring you the latest EBP research so that you can easily implement EBP in your jurisdiction. We encourage you to use the EBP Stakeholder Resources section of the website to be your go-to source for the EBP implementation initiative in Pennsylvania. The following resources are available:

EBP and PPCJI Overview

What is EBP?

  • Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the application of science into operational practice for services and programs. The goal is to use practices that have been empirically tested and have been shown to reduce recidivism.

  • Based on numerous studies and meta-analyses of rehabilitation programs, researchers have outlined a set of principles to guide the implementation of EBP.

  • The evidence-based principles for effective services and interventions are:
  • Conduct an assessment of risk and needs using an actuarial instrument and determine the drivers of criminal behavior;
  • Enhance intrinsic motivation through the use of constructive communication techniques, such as motivational interviewing and goal setting;
  • Apply risk, need, and responsivity principles (i.e., target people that are high-risk, focus on changing criminogenic factors, provide services that match needs.) provide the appropriate dosage of services; and, deliver treatment and other services as part of the sentencing and sanctioning process;
  • Employ programs and practices grounded in scientific evidence (i.e., cognitive behavioral therapy) and delivered by trained staff
  • Utilize community support networks to reinforce pro-social behaviors and help people establish prosocial contacts in the community
  • Routinely monitor and assess outcomes and staff performance.

EBP Knowledge Test

EBP Overview eLearning Course

This 3-hour introductory course teaches justice system professionals the key principles of evidence-based practices: risk, need, responsivity, and effective intervention. Case studies, exercises, and scenario-based situations are used to increase understanding of how to use these proven practices to help people stay law-abiding. This is a self-paced course. You can complete the course all in one sitting or break it into smaller sections. At the conclusion of the course, you have the option to print a certificate of completion showing three training hours. The course is free to Pennsylvania county employees.
Register for EBP Course

EBP and Operating Standards

  • EBP's are incorporated into the Operating Standards for Adult Probation and Parole Departments in PA. A document (Resources for EBP Related Operating Standards) was developed to assist county probation and parole departments by referencing existing resources that may aid in ensuring compliance with operating standards related to evidence-based practices. Resources are hyperlinks to documents, tools, videos, or webinar recordings posted on the County Chief Adult Probation and Parole Officers Association of PA website under EBP Stakeholder resources webpages. This is not an exhaustive list of all available resources and will be updated as additional resources become available.
  • The Pennsylvania Partnership for Criminal Justice Improvement (PPCJI) is a collaborative effort to improve community well-being by employing research-informed practices at each decision point throughout the criminal justice system. It commenced with the formation of the EBP Leadership Team consisting of many key stakeholders in PA’s criminal justice system including representatives from: Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP), Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts (AOPC), Department of Corrections (DOC), Pennsylvania Parole Board (PPB), Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing, Office of Victim Advocate (OVA), as well as several county chief probation officers.

  • Background Information
  • In late 2017, the Chiefs Association was successful in receiving initial grant funds to begin the rollout of EBP training and technical assistance to interested counties. Most recently, the Chiefs Association contracted with a consultant to assist with EBP/PPCJI expansion, training, and support.

  • PPCJI Has Accomplished Several Activities Including:
  • Development of the Pennsylvania Adult Probation and Parole Evidence-Based Practices Strategic Plan.
  • Selection of two validated, actuarial risk/need tools (ORAS and LS/CMI), supported across the state.
  • Publication of a blueprint for EBP Implementation.
  • Development of a clear definition of recidivism and a plan to promote its consistent use.
  • Roll out of an EBP training plan including certified motivational interviewing processes.
EBP Overview Video
County Chief Adult Probation & Parole Officers Association of PennsylvaniaContact : Helene Placey P.O. Box 1505 Camp Hill, PA 170011-814-590-6323heleneplacey@ccappoap.com