Learning together and working together: how students and prisoners can work together to find new ways of understanding.

Dr Alison Spurgeon-Dickson JP

As part of a University of Cumbria and HMP Haverigg experiential learning collaboration we developed and successfully delivered a level 6 module in psychology, worth 20 credits for our students and prisoner students at Cumbria’s only prison.

The way in which we worked together was truly innovative because of how the module content was delivered. Not only did it include typical theoretical discussion and debates on criminology and forensic psychology, it also drew from wider university disciplines and preeminent public figures involved in the local judiciary and criminal justice systems, giving both sets of students an enhanced level of understanding. Interactive dialogue was another unique element of the module and formed the basis of students’ learning. They worked together and learnt from one another on an equal footing, which was highly valued by both sets of learners alike.

  “good to have discussions with external speakers and the opportunity to put your perspective forward – and it is good to know that outsiders are prepared to help”

UoC and Haverigg students

How was it rolled out?

During 2015-16 university students and prisoners submitted applications and induction days were held in the prison for the students to meet and build mutual trust.

As an example of the unique collaborative approach, a local judge led on a group discussion on courtroom psychology in the prison. Students met the judge on equal terms, and demonstrated through confident discussion and interaction with their peers, the transforming capacity of higher education.

What were the results

All students passed at 2:1 or above and prisoners gained 20 credits towards higher education on their release. For prisoner learners, it gave them an alternative perspective on their experiences, increased their employability thereby significantly reducing their risk of re-offending upon leaving prison. They learnt by being connected to a wider community of learners where solitary distance learning is usually the only option for those wishing to gain an education. University students gained invaluable insight into the lived experience of prison and the criminal justice system and gave students across our campus, who would never normally get the opportunity, to work in a prison setting.

“The program has provided me with enriched experiences and knowledge via the most healthy and supportive environment. It has helped me cooperate with others from completely different life experiences and culminate these experiences with my own to create useful and insight work which is invaluable progressing into the future”.

UoC and Haverigg students

What next?

This way of collaborative working is highly transferable and as a result, we are developing a suite of programmes to include additional modules in psychology, thereby offering more experiential learning and development opportunities at more levels.

Dr Alison Spurgeon-Dickson JP is one of our senior lecturers. If you'd like to contact her then please email her on: alison.spurgeon-dickson@cumbria.ac.uk