[AAACE-NLA] Literacy in prison schools

[William R Muth/FS/VCU]

Janet--Helping literacy learners find personal reasons to learn in 
mandatory literacy programs is a big challenge! As you know, prison 
systems often encourage prisoner passivity. And many of those performing 
at lower levels already think that "doing school" means doing what you are 
told and following directions. 

What are the "stakes" in your system? In the Federal Prison System 
mandatory used to mean that you could be assigned to higher paying prison 
jobs if you finished the program. But now it means you lose good time if 
you quit. This heavier "incentive" brought lots of learners back to 
school, but many with poor attitudes & resentment--all of which fell on 
the teacher to fix. 

Often through trial and error, I've stumbled upon hooks as varied as gold 
stars for one learner with very low verbal skills and language experience 
approach for more verbal students. Many intermediate learners resent 
school but secretly want help with letter writing and other communication. 
Some learners respond to praise and success. Some have never set goals for 
themselves, and need to learn how to do this gradually.

I am sure that many community-based teachers face the very same challenges 
as correctional educators face. It would be helpful to hear what works for 
them as well...
Bill Muth
VCU 

 
 




Jmk <jkaber at sbcglobal.net> 
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03/11/2007 02:57 PM
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[AAACE-NLA] Literacy in prison schools






As a Correctional Educator what strategies can be used to motivate the 
lower learning students given that many of them don't want to be in 
school?  Janice_______________________________________________
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