David M. is a college student, a debater, and a prisoner in Huntsville, TX. In this moving talk, David argues that all prisoners should be taught to debate while incarcerated. Watch to find out why teaching prisoners to argue will make society a better place for everyone.
In-prison education refers to educational programs and initiatives provided to individuals who are incarcerated within correctional facilities. These programs aim to offer educational opportunities that can help inmates develop new trades, enhance their cognitive abilities, improve their chances of successful reentry into society by increasing their employability, and ultimately reduce the likelihood of recidivism.
Filling-in academic gaps: In-prison education often includes basic education such as literacy, numeracy, and high school equivalency programs (GED or equivalent). These programs aim to fill educational gaps and prepare inmates better for reentry.
Vocational Training: Vocational and technical training programs offer inmates the chance to acquire job-specific skills that can be valuable upon release. These programs can include training in areas, such as carpentry, plumbing, auto mechanics, culinary arts, computer technology, and more.
Higher Education: Some prisons partner with colleges, universities, or distance learning programs to offer higher education courses to inmates. This can include college-level classes, associate degree programs, and even bachelor's degree programs in certain cases.
The benefits of In-College education, by the Lee College Huntsville Center:
"In 2006: (TDCJ Fiscal Year 2006 Statistical Report):
Estimated amount to house an inmate $40.06/day – $14, 621/year
60, 197 male inmates were released
The average education of those released was 7.81 years
The average age of men released was 34.6 years (prime employment years)
Inmates who completed two years of college have 10% recidivism rate compared to 60% for those receiving no additional education (Kemp Study, 2003).
Assuring 60% recidivism of those with no education (see above) 36,118 will return
Assume 10% recidivism if inmate earns two years of college 6,019 will return
Cost for one year for the 60 percent (no education) who return: $528,081,278
Compared with: Costs for one year for the 10 percent (two years of college) who return: $88,003,799"