Date of Award

5-2023

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Lim, Caroline Ph.D

Abstract

Background and purpose: Research has tended to focus on the outcomes of how digital inclusion for incarcerated individuals has helped reduce the rate of recidivism rather than the success rate in higher education for formerly incarcerated individuals. This study was implemented to examine the relationship between technological skills and academic achievement amongst formerly incarcerated individuals in higher education. Methods: This observational study used cross-sectional data from participants recruited from Project Rebound in California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB). Participants were recruited using purposive sampling method. Students who participated were over the age of 18, formerly incarcerated, and currently enrolled in California State University San Bernardino. Participants completed a self-report technological skill survey. The proficiency level of specific technology applications and computer skills was assessed using a self-report scale, giving the possible responses which ranged from poor to excellent. The participants’ academic achievement was measured by having the participant input their GPA level. The self-report survey will be used to examine the relationship between technological skills and academic achievement. Results: The study sample featured 27 participants that were formerly incarcerated in the Project Rebound program in California State University San Bernardino. Participants ages ranged from 29 to 58 years (SD=8.0). Males formed the majority of participants in this study sample. Overall, participants were excelling academically as evidenced by the high average GPA in this sample. The data results revealed a statistically insignificant weak positive correlation between participants’ technological skills and academic achievement. Conclusion: Despite the statistically insignificant findings, the positive correlation between technological skills and academic achievement suggest the need for programs serving formerly incarcerated individuals to take into account this other aspect of need.

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Social Work Commons

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