Center for Digital Inclusion Evidence-based Technology Education for Women Transitioning from Incarceration

Abstract

Our project focuses on offering digital skills training to women transitioning from jails and prisons in Kansas and Missouri to support their employment, healthcare, and other aspects of reintegrating into our increasingly digital society. Supporting technology access and skills among women in transition is particularly critical, as the vast majority of women in or leaving incarceration are low-income and/or from racial/ethnic minority groups. Moreover, about 60% of imprisoned women have at least one child under the age of 18, which makes it even more essential for them to be equipped with knowledge and skills in technology to support education of their children and to find jobs after leaving incarceration.

Based on solid empirical research, the Center for Digital Inclusion has developed and offered hybrid digital skills sessions (online and in-person sessions) to women in transition in Kansas and Missouri. Topics covered in the program at different levels include online information search and validation, online resume building, personal online security, Microsoft Office MS Office, website building, and basic coding.

The Center’s digital equity/inclusion projects follow community-based, co-design principles working closely with diverse stakeholders throughout the process. For this particular project, the Center has formed collaborative partnerships with various community organizations including public libraries, departments of corrections and nonprofit organizations supporting women’s reentry.

A total of 155 women transitioning from incarceration have participated in the program with more than 75 completing at least one lesson so far.