Research project Education in Prison

Each Swedish prison operates a learning center where incarcerated individuals can study at the municipal adult education level in order to earn a high school diploma equivalent to the one obtained outside of prisons. Providing education, however, can be challenging as its environment is not primarily designed for educational purposes. Security protocols and overcrowding have to be considered which affect students’ study opportunities.

Furthermore, research has shown that many prisoners have previously had negative school experiences and are in need of extra learning support. The pedagogical staff has to adapt their approaches to meet the individual needs and promote learning while also maintaining study motivation of their students.
 
This study examines education in Swedish prisons, focusing on the conditions for learning and participation. More specifically, the study explores the experiences of pedagogical staff working in the prison context and how they support their students’ learning. The study also seeks to shed light on the meaning of education for incarcerated persons and why they decide to participate in education or, conversely, decide not to participate.