Overview

As society becomes more dependent on technology, formerly incarcerated individuals often struggle to keep up due to the limitations of prison systems in providing digital education. Our project, Next Step Network, addresses this issue by proposing a comprehensive design solution that prepares inmates for a tech-driven world. This solution includes both pre-release and post-release components that provide critical digital literacy skills for successful reintegration into society.

Problem Statement

Incarcerated individuals are at a significant disadvantage when it comes to digital literacy, as prison systems often lag behind in preparing inmates for modern society's technological demands. According to Zivanai & Mahlangu (2022), many incarcerated individuals are "digitally incapacitated because they have never utilized digital technology or because they were denied access to any while incarcerated." This lack of digital skills severely limits their ability to re-enter the workforce and society, hindering their chances of successful reintegration and exacerbating social isolation.

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Proposed Solution

To address the digital literacy gap, we propose a two-phase solution:

1. Pre-release Component: A desktop application designed for shared spaces within correctional facilities, such as libraries, will introduce incarcerated individuals to basic digital skills.
2. Post-release Component: A companion mobile app will continue the education initiated in the pre-release phase, allowing individuals to continue building their skills while navigating the demands of modern society.

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Research & Key Insights

Data from Surveys and Expert Interviews
To inform the design of this solution, we utilized data from a survey distributed as part of another prison education initiative. The survey asked questions regarding:

• Access to the internet,
• Daily challenges and frustrations,
• Use of apps, and
• Desired features in a potential app.

In addition, we conducted interviews with four experts in correctional education, technology integration, and rehabilitation. These discussions highlighted several barriers to implementing digital literacy programs in prisons and revealed key insights about the digital divide:

• Challenges During Incarceration: Inmates have limited access to digital tools, often feel overwhelmed by new technology, and are unprepared for the digital world they encounter upon release.
• Barriers to Implementation: Current programs are mostly offline, and logistical issues such as funding constraints, security concerns, and a lack of time for reentry education hinder effective pre-release preparation.
• Perceptions of Technology: Many inmates distrust modern technology, and their lack of exposure to it creates feelings of frustration and isolation.

Design & Testing

Digital Simulator & BrowserOur solution includes a digital simulator that allows limited access to essential websites and applications. This tool helps inmates practice navigating common digital tasks, bridging the gap between theory and practical experience.

User Testing
We tested the app with three experts: one in ed-tech in prison settings, two in digital literacy/rehabilitation, and one formerly incarcerated. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the simulator's clean, user-friendly design and its ability to familiarize users with essential tools they would encounter post-release.

Key Features

1. AI Chatbot: The chatbot introduces users to AI, guiding them through digital literacy tasks and life-related questions.
2. Progress Tracking: The app uses progress bars and levels for each module, offering users a structured path to learning.
3. Support Tools: Real-time problem-solving features like a glossary, forum, and AI assistance help users navigate challenges.
4. Resource Library & Community Forum: These features offer social support and additional educational resources, creating a supportive learning environment.

Pre-release Component

A desktop application will be deployed in shared spaces like prison libraries, where inmates can access modules that teach essential digital literacy skills. The curriculum is developed in partnership with experts and focuses on preparing inmates for the technology they will encounter post-release.

Post-release Component

Upon release, inmates can continue learning through a companion mobile app that builds upon the pre-release curriculum. This app promotes continuous education with flexible, on-the-go learning tools, ensuring a smoother reintegration process.

Conclusion

This design proposal aims to bridge the digital divide faced by formerly incarcerated individuals by providing them with essential digital literacy skills. Through a structured, phased approach, we hope to inspire similar efforts and foster a future where digital education becomes a core component of prison rehabilitation programs. By addressing both pre-release and post-release needs, our solution enhances the chances of successful reintegration into modern society.