The introduction of tablets in correctional facilities has revolutionized the way inmates spend their time, access information, and prepare for life after incarceration. These devices have become an essential tool in the rehabilitation process, offering a wide range of activities and resources that cater to the educational, entertainment, and communication needs of inmates. In this article, we will delve into the various things that inmates can do on tablets, highlighting the benefits and opportunities that these devices provide.
Education and Personal Development
Tablets have opened up new avenues for inmates to pursue their educational goals, acquire new skills, and engage in personal development activities. With access to a vast array of digital resources, inmates can:
Access Educational Content
Inmates can access a wide range of educational content, including e-books, articles, and online courses. This content can help them improve their literacy skills, learn new languages, and gain knowledge in various subjects, such as mathematics, science, and history. Many correctional facilities have partnered with educational institutions and organizations to provide inmates with access to accredited courses and degree programs, enabling them to earn certificates, diplomas, or even degrees while incarcerated.
Develop Life Skills
Tablets can also be used to develop essential life skills, such as time management, budgeting, and goal setting. Inmates can access interactive tutorials, videos, and worksheets that teach them how to manage their finances, create a budget, and set realistic goals. These skills are crucial for inmates to become self-sufficient and productive members of society upon release.
Communication and Connection
Tablets have made it possible for inmates to stay connected with their loved ones, access important information, and communicate with correctional staff. Some of the ways inmates can use tablets for communication and connection include:
Video Visitation
Tablets enable inmates to participate in video visitation, allowing them to stay in touch with family and friends who may not be able to visit in person. This feature has been shown to have a positive impact on inmate behavior and mental health, as it helps to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Email and Messaging
Inmates can use tablets to send and receive emails, as well as messages to and from approved contacts. This allows them to stay connected with their support network, receive updates on important events, and communicate with correctional staff. Many correctional facilities have implemented secure email systems that enable inmates to send and receive emails while ensuring the safety and security of the facility.
Entertainment and Leisure
While education and communication are essential aspects of an inmate’s daily life, entertainment and leisure activities are also important for their mental and emotional well-being. Tablets offer a range of entertainment options, including:
Movies and Music
Inmates can access a library of movies, TV shows, and music, providing them with a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life. Many correctional facilities have partnered with entertainment companies to provide inmates with access to a wide range of content, including popular movies, TV shows, and music.
Gaming
Tablets also offer a range of games that inmates can play to pass the time, challenge themselves, and have fun. Gaming can be a therapeutic activity that helps to reduce stress and anxiety, while also providing an opportunity for social interaction and competition with other inmates.
Health and Wellness
Tablets can be used to promote health and wellness among inmates, providing them with access to important information, resources, and tools. Some of the ways tablets can be used for health and wellness include:
Access to Health Information
Inmates can use tablets to access information on various health topics, including nutrition, fitness, and disease prevention. This information can help inmates make informed decisions about their health and well-being, while also providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Mental Health Resources
Tablets can also be used to provide inmates with access to mental health resources, including counseling services, support groups, and stress management techniques. These resources can help inmates manage their mental health and well-being, while also providing them with the support and guidance they need to overcome challenges and difficulties.
In conclusion, tablets have become an essential tool in correctional facilities, providing inmates with access to a wide range of activities, resources, and opportunities. From education and personal development to communication and connection, entertainment and leisure, and health and wellness, tablets have the potential to positively impact the lives of inmates and help them prepare for a successful reentry into society. As the use of tablets in correctional facilities continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative and effective ways to use these devices to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Access to e-books, articles, and online courses |
| Communication | Video visitation, email, and messaging |
| Entertainment | Movies, music, and games |
| Health and Wellness | Access to health information and mental health resources |
- Access to educational content and resources
- Opportunities for personal development and skill-building
- Communication and connection with loved ones and correctional staff
- Entertainment and leisure activities
- Health and wellness resources and information
What types of educational content can inmates access on tablets?
Inmates can access a wide range of educational content on tablets, including online courses, educational videos, and e-books. This content can help them improve their literacy and numeracy skills, as well as learn new skills and trades. For example, some tablets may offer courses in areas such as business, technology, and healthcare, which can help inmates prepare for careers after their release. Additionally, some tablets may provide access to educational resources such as language learning tools, test preparation materials, and career development guides.
The educational content available on tablets can be tailored to meet the individual needs and interests of each inmate. For instance, some inmates may be interested in pursuing a GED or high school equivalency diploma, while others may want to learn a new language or trade. The tablets can provide inmates with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, which can be especially helpful in a correctional setting where access to traditional educational resources may be limited. By providing inmates with access to educational content on tablets, correctional facilities can help support their rehabilitation and reentry into society.
Can inmates use tablets to stay in touch with family and friends?
Yes, inmates can use tablets to stay in touch with family and friends through secure and monitored communication platforms. These platforms may include email, video visitation, and messaging services, which can help inmates maintain relationships and connections with loved ones while they are incarcerated. The tablets can also provide inmates with access to phone and video call services, which can be especially helpful for inmates who are unable to receive in-person visits due to distance or other logistical challenges.
The communication platforms available on tablets can be designed to ensure the safety and security of both inmates and the general public. For example, all emails and messages may be monitored and screened for contraband or other prohibited content, and video visits may be conducted in a secure and supervised environment. Additionally, the tablets can provide inmates with access to resources and support services, such as counseling and mentoring programs, which can help them navigate the challenges of incarceration and prepare for reentry into society. By providing inmates with access to communication platforms on tablets, correctional facilities can help support their mental health and well-being.
How do tablets help inmates prepare for reentry into society?
Tablets can help inmates prepare for reentry into society by providing them with access to resources and tools that can support their rehabilitation and reintegration. For example, tablets may offer job search and career development resources, such as resume building tools and job training programs, which can help inmates prepare for employment after their release. Additionally, tablets may provide inmates with access to information and resources on housing, education, and healthcare, which can help them navigate the challenges of reentry and establish a stable and supportive environment.
The tablets can also provide inmates with access to cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based programs, which can help them address underlying issues and develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed in society. Furthermore, the tablets can offer inmates the opportunity to practice and develop important life skills, such as budgeting and financial management, time management, and goal setting, which can help them establish a sense of stability and routine after their release. By providing inmates with access to these resources and tools, correctional facilities can help support their successful reentry into society and reduce the risk of recidivism.
Can inmates use tablets to access entertainment content?
Yes, inmates can use tablets to access entertainment content, such as music, movies, and e-books, which can help them pass the time and reduce stress and boredom. The entertainment content available on tablets can be carefully curated and monitored to ensure that it is appropriate and safe for inmates, and may include a range of genres and formats, such as fiction and nonfiction books, documentaries, and educational programs. Additionally, the tablets may offer inmates the opportunity to access games and puzzles, which can help them relax and engage in recreational activities.
The entertainment content available on tablets can be designed to promote positive behavior and reinforce pro-social values, such as empathy, self-awareness, and self-regulation. For example, some tablets may offer inmates access to motivational and inspirational content, such as TED talks and self-help books, which can help them develop a positive mindset and build resilience. Additionally, the tablets may provide inmates the opportunity to engage in creative activities, such as writing and art, which can help them express themselves and process their emotions in a healthy and constructive way. By providing inmates with access to entertainment content on tablets, correctional facilities can help support their mental health and well-being.
How are tablets used to support inmate rehabilitation and treatment?
Tablets can be used to support inmate rehabilitation and treatment by providing them with access to evidence-based programs and resources, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and substance abuse treatment. These programs can help inmates address underlying issues and develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed in society, such as coping skills, problem-solving skills, and relapse prevention skills. Additionally, the tablets can offer inmates the opportunity to participate in virtual therapy sessions and support groups, which can help them connect with peers and professionals who can provide guidance and support.
The tablets can also be used to track inmate progress and outcomes, which can help correctional facilities evaluate the effectiveness of their rehabilitation and treatment programs. For example, the tablets can be used to administer assessments and surveys, which can help identify areas where inmates may need additional support or intervention. Additionally, the tablets can provide inmates with access to resources and tools that can help them develop a personalized treatment plan, which can help them set goals and track their progress over time. By providing inmates with access to these resources and tools, correctional facilities can help support their rehabilitation and reentry into society.
Are tablets secure and monitored in correctional facilities?
Yes, tablets used in correctional facilities are typically secure and monitored to prevent inmates from accessing unauthorized content or communicating with the outside world inappropriately. The tablets may be equipped with specialized software and hardware that can detect and prevent attempts to hack or tamper with the device, and may be connected to a secure network that can monitor and track inmate activity. Additionally, the tablets may be subject to regular inspections and audits, which can help ensure that they are being used in accordance with facility policies and procedures.
The security and monitoring of tablets in correctional facilities can be designed to balance the need to provide inmates with access to resources and tools that can support their rehabilitation and reentry, while also ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and the general public. For example, the tablets may be configured to restrict access to certain types of content or websites, and may be equipped with features such as keyword detection and alert systems, which can help identify and respond to potential security threats. By providing a secure and monitored environment for tablet use, correctional facilities can help minimize the risks associated with tablet use and ensure that inmates are using the devices in a safe and responsible manner.