Chapter 10: Teaching Strategies and Practices for Correctional Education

The goal of providing educational opportunities for jail inmates is the central focus of this chapter; however, creating appropriate and substantial instructional programming for this population has many inherent problems. The primary obstacle to participation in programs is contingent on length of incarceration that varies greatly from inmate to inmate. Moreover, learning must occur within a stressful environment rife with interruptions due to security issues, court appearances, and medical concerns. The logistical requirements of correctional environment dictate many design dynamics, including method of delivery, materials management, and instructional modalities. As the locus of correctional education shift from academic and vocational instruction to those concentrated on cognitive change and personal growth, innovative curriculum is emerging. This chapter provides an overview of the current tapestry of programs that are endeavoring to modify behavior in order to reduce patterns of repeated incarceration.