Prison Education: Improving the Technology Time Warp
Turner Nashe examines how tablets and virtual reality are beginning to modernize education inside prisons.
How the evolution of technology is changing learning for prisoners
Dr. Turner Nashe examines the progression leading to Virtual Reality in Prisons
03/13/17 | Corrections.com|
Tablet technology – Now Being Found in Strange Places
Mary Scott Nabers | Corrections.com | Twitter
The U.S. Department of Education reports that state and local spending on prisons and jails in the U.S. has increased at triple the rate of funding for K-12 public education in the last three decades. What a horrible revelation…enough to shock even the most cynical reader I suspect!
Correction experts are trying hard and many are turning to options never considered in the past. In numerous locations, prisoners are being placed into cells with tablet computers. It is a trend that is growing quickly.
Most citizens rarely think about the cost of incarcerating prisoners, and on first blush, one might question why a facility would spend money on technology for prisoners. The answer is pretty simple when you think about it. Prison officials are doing it to reduce recidivism costs.
To read more visit Corrections.com
Indiana’s inmates could soon have access to tablets
Julia Palazzo | ABC 57 News | Twitter
Indiana is looking to help offenders who are behind bars. Soon, each inmate in the Hoosier state could have their own tablet.
The Indiana Department of Correction says the tablet will help inmates stay connected with their families and improve their education. Offenders will be able to use the tablets to access any classwork, self-help materials or entertainment.
Officials expect to use entertainment, like music or movies, to reward good behavior.
The proposal was first filed in January.
A company that will provide the tablets hasn’t been chosen yet. The state is still negotiating and accepting bids from vendors. Apple iPad’s or kindles won’t be used. Instead, a company that makes tablets specifically for prisons or jails will be hired.
To read more visit ABC 57 News
U.S. Department of Education Launches $680,000 Challenge for Virtual and Augmented Reality Learning Experiences
Press Office | U.S. Department of Education | Twitter
The U.S. Department of Education today launched the EdSim Challenge, a $680,000 competition to design the next-generation of educational simulations that strengthen career and technical skills. The Challenge calls upon the virtual reality, video game developer, and educational technology communities to submit concepts for immersive simulations that will prepare students for the globally competitive workforce of the 21st century.
“This initiative is an exciting example of how virtual reality and game technologies can be applied to give students everywhere the tools to prepare for future success,” said Johan Uvin, acting assistant secretary for career, technical, and adult education. “We encourage developers from all disciplines to answer our call and help define the future of applied learning.”
Simulated digital learning environments, such as virtual and augmented reality, 3D simulations, and multiplayer video games, are an emerging approach to deliver educational content, and provide students with enriched experiences in information retention, engagement, skills acquisition, and learning outcomes. Students who participate in digital learning simulations for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning had a 23 percent higher achievement rating than those who do not.
To read more visit U.S. Department of Education
- Newsweek – What to Know About the Future of Virtual Reality
- ABC 15 Arizona – Pima County gives inmates tablets while behind bars
- University of Virginia – UVA Professors Use Behavioral Science and Technology to Improve Prisoner Re-Entry Outcomes
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