Learning behind bars: Motivations and challenges of learners in a correctional facility in Ghana
Date
2020
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
International Journal of Educational Research
Abstract
Literature on correctional education is replete focusing largely on its effectiveness in reducing
recidivism and enhancing rehabilitation of offenders. This paper takes a somewhat different look
at correctional education with a focus on inmates’ motivations for and challenges confronted in
participating in a basic education programme. Employing a case study research design, this
present study purposively selected 30 young inmates in a Ghanaian correctional facility for focus group interviews. The study found that the need for better employment, life opportunities and
literacy post-release were the main push factors for inmates’ participation in the educational
programme. With regards challenges, the inmates reported varying experiences from lack of
institutional support in learning, lack of teachers coupled with poor teacher attendance, to
punishment, which impedes their learning. These findings have significant implications for the
design and delivery of future correctional education programmes.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Correctional education, Motivation, Challenges, Inmate