NCJ Number
75175
Date Published
1979
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This paper analyzes the effectiveness of a computer-assisted instructional program in basic literacy skills used by inmates in the Bexar County Detention Center, San Antonio, Texas.
Abstract
The program used the PLATO system for verbal and mathematical instruction. Taped interviews with inmates who used the system indicated that they viewed PLATO as an effective and pleasurable teaching device. Many inmates initially felt, however, that PLATO materials were not oriented toward adults. Inmates not involved in this program often indicated their interest in participating. Prison trustees often made use of the system in off hours and especially liked the PLATO feature which allows users to communicate with other users at the same location and at locations outside the site. The facility instructional staff was primarily indifferent to PLATO. The PLATO program was small, affecting only a limited number of inmates and leaving the remainder to be instructed through traditional methods. PLATO was popular with education area guards; corrections officers in other areas of the jail viewed the system positively when they learned about its applications to their own training situations. An analysis of the scores of inmates taught with PLATO and those who were not indicated that those using the system learned more in areas related to mathematics (where more instructional time was spent). An adult-centered program is needed to increase effectiveness. Tables and one reference are included.