Bergen, February 2025
COST 22139 Training School in Bergen: “Minding the gap between language needs and education pre, during and post prison"
The Training School was organised by Professor Arve Asbjørnsen and his team from the Bergen Cognition and Learning Group at the University of Bergen (UiB). The fantastic programme featured a full day of engaging presentations, as well as an insightful visit to the education units in three correctional facilities: Bergen Prison (adults), Bjørgvin Prison, and the Youth Unit (under 18s).
The presentations were delivered by Professor Asbjørnsen himself, Assoc. Prof. Frøydis Morken (UiB), Assoc. Prof. Sunniva S. Eidsvåg (UiB), Mathias Sivertsen (The Youth Unit, Åsane Upper Secondary School, and UiB), and Senior Adviser Paal Chr. Breivik (County Governor of Vestland). Their talks explored the vital topic of educational needs among individuals in conflict with the law, with a particular emphasis on the unique structure and challenges of prison education in Norway.
Educational needs among people in conflict with the law: Prison education experiences from Norway
Using questionnaires to address language and communication skills in the prison population
Prof. Arve Asbjørnsen UIB
Language and communication skills in persons in conflict with the law – review of the literature
Ass. Prof. Frøydis Morken
Communication skills among young prisoners in Norway
Ass. Prof. Sunniva S. Eidsvåg
Need for education in young people in conflict with the law
Mathias Sivertsen, UIB & Åsane Prison – Youth Unit
Prison education: Motivation and barriers to participation Mathias
Mathias Sivertsen, UIB & Åsane Prison – Youth Unit