Incarcerated Youth: Contexts, Conditions, and Perspectives on Learning and Schooling

• In Event: Poster Session 17
  In Poster Session: Social Influences on Learning

Abstract

This study explored the schooling experiences of incarcerated youth and their orientations to schooling and learning while in detention. The work was approached from a sociocultural theoretical perspective, and explored how the intersection of culture, learning, and schooling affected the youth in this environment. Methods of ethnographic and narrative inquiry along with a descriptive case study approach were employed. Findings show that school related successes did occur for youth in the detention center showing increased positive orientations towards learning and schooling. This success appeared to be due to positive relationships with teachers as well as culture of caring that was co-constructed by teachers and staff in the detention center.

Author

• Rachel Sophia Phillips, University of Washington - Seattle