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, and an insightful visit to the education units in three correctional facilities: Bergen Prison (adults), Bjørgvin Prison and Youth Unit (under 18’s). 

The presentations were given by Arve himself, Ass. Prof. Frøydis Morken (UiB), Ass. Prof. Sunniva S. Eidsvåg (UiB), Mathias Sivertsen (The Youth Unit, Åsane vgs, and (UiB) and Senior adviser Paal Chrs. Breivik (County Governor of Vestland). They explored the vital topic of educational needs among individuals in conflict with the law, with a special focus on the unique prison education experiences in Norway. 

Educational needs among people in conflict with the law: Prison education experiences from Norway

Arve writes: 

“In this session we will discuss experiences and go more deeply into some findings from doing survey studies on prison education in Norway during the last 20 years. The first evaluation of prison education in Norway was conducted in 2003, and the first national survey one year later. As a result, the Norwegian government issued a white paper on prison education (“An other spring,”) where they stated: “The objective of education within the correctional system aligns with that of general education: to foster personal development, social competence, and self-reliance, while imparting knowledge to enable individuals to utilize their abilities and contribute to societal value creation. Education is thus a pivotal element in rehabilitation efforts. Well-structured education can play a crucial role in successful rehabilitation, making it an investment in the future and enhancing societal safety.” And as the first rounds of assessment made it clear that a substantial number of people on conflict with the law possessed a variety of learning disorders, they added that “The local school should therefore work diligently to identify the causes of learning difficulties and implement targeted, customized education.” Following this, we have been doing systematic research on needs, fulfillments, challenges, motivation and barriers to education during incarceration.”

The recordings of the sessions will be on the website shortly.