NCJ Number
158828
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 46 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1995) Pages: 6-9
Date Published
1995
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Eighteen male inmates in a maximum-security prison took part in a study that examined inmates' perceptions of a class on effective reading.
Abstract
The participants were all enrolled in Adult Basic Education Classes. These classes meet twice a week for 90 minutes in the afternoon or evenings and are offered on three levels: Grades 0-2, Grades 3-5, and Grades 6-9. The participants ranged from 23 to 63 years old; the median was 33 years. Data were collected over an 8-week period by means of a survey instrument, interviews, the notes of the teacher/researcher, and group discussions. The research focused on determining the variables the inmates perceived as important in literacy classes. Results revealed that specific types of teacher behavior, the instructional context, and the quality of texts formed the basis of inmates' perceptions of effective instruction. Participants regarded the teacher's use of examples or illustrations, numerous reviews, and the application of the instructional content as very important to literacy development. Although the study had limitations, it provides a first step in establishing a baseline against which future literacy curriculum for correctional settings can be measured. In addition, because a growing array of research reveals that educational programs are one of the most successful means of rehabilitation, it makes sense to develop such programs that appeal to inmates' interests and needs. 5 references