Higher Education in Prison Across the Globe: An International Study of Instructor Experiences

• In Event: Teaching and Visitation in Jails and Prisons

Abstract

Individuals who are provided with access to adult higher education in correctional facilities are provided such access on the premise that these programs provide substantial benefits. Yet, unprecedented levels of economic inequality are often amplified for the population of adult learners inside correctional institutions across the globe. This presents considerable challenges to providing and sustaining access to courses that mirror those offered on traditional college and university campuses. This project explores the landscape and nature of higher education in prison programs to understand the provision of adult higher education in the correctional environment on an international level. The current study discusses findings from a national (n=156) and international survey of instructors who teach for higher education in prison programs across the globe. Results will detail a comparison of instructor pedagogies, challenges, and adaptations to teaching in prisons internationally. Implications for higher education programming, policy, and research will be discussed.

Author

• Ashley M. Appleby, Endicott College