NCJ Number
228092
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 60 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2009 Pages: 100-119
Date Published
June 2009
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the impact of a word study literacy approach on the spelling ability and self-efficacy of incarcerated adults.
Abstract
Findings of the study concluded that the intervention increased the adult learner's spelling ability, benefitting the weakest spellers the most. Inmates reported more confidence in their reading and spelling abilities as a result of the intervention, with 80 percent reporting increased self-efficacy. Inmates provided high ratings of the method, commenting specifically on the brevity and adaptability of the program. Data were collected before and after each of four 2-week word study sessions. Participants who volunteered for the study were given a diagnostic pretest to measure word knowledge. A researcher-created post-test was given to measure retention of learning. Self-efficacy was measured through a short questionnaire pre- and postintervention. A total of 44 jail inmates participated over the course of the school year. Bibliography and tables