I Never Knew it Was So Complicated: The Impact of Formerly Incarcerated Guest Speakers on Criminal Justice Classes

• In Event: Roundtable: Critical Teaching: Teaching Critically About Injustice and Inequality with Experiential Learning Strategies

Abstract

This presentation will explore the impact of classroom dialogue between people who have experienced the justice system firsthand and criminal justice students who are preparing to become part of its power structure. Student writing data will be used to explore the potentially transformational power of connecting credible messengers to future justice professionals. In particular we will examine the shift in their attitudes towards in-prison higher education programs, which will be growing in number and size with the upcoming Pell Experimental Sites Initiative. Best practices for those looking to adapt this pedagogical tool for their own classrooms will be offered.

Author

• Lila McDowell, John Jay College of Criminal Justice