NCJ Number
100305
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 27 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1985) Pages: 441-453
Date Published
1985
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article examines the history, philosophy, and nature of Canadian prison education programs.
Abstract
An examination of the penal education system indicates that from its inception it has been viewed as important only insofar as it contributes to the inmates' reformation and not for its own sake. Early programs emphasized reading so that inmates could read the Bible and become spiritually reformed. Later, education was viewed as a mechanism for moral reform. Presently elements of economic reform through training have been incorporated. Educational programs are given low priority by prison officials both in terms of funding and in the encouragement given inmates to participate in them. Their utility is viewed as a means of occupying inmates' time and providing for economic rehabilitation. Most programs emphasize only basic skills in reading and mathematics and vocational training. Values-education and life-skills courses are conspicuously absent. Overall, the current penal education system is fumbling in implementation, patchy in operation, and half-heartedly supported. Reform is needed. 35 references.