In most states, correctional departments have begun to use new technology to provide better security and rehabilitation efforts for their prisoners. However IDOC has been resistant to any kind of change. What security concerns are they most afraid of, the security of the prison or the job security of its administrators and officers? It is evident that advancement in technology is allowing everyday life, from running companies to running government, to be more effectively and efficiently managed. Why isn’t that happening in Illinois prisons?
One important step that IDOC could immediately take is to allow prisoners to purchase mini tablets. 43 other states already allow inmates to use this method of technology. Mini tablets allow prisoners to send and receive email to approved sites. They also allow prisoners to purchase music, something that has been more difficult to do since cassettes and discs are being phased out (IDOC has never allowed inmates to purchase discs).
Mini tablets represent 3 major opportunities for prisoners:
- Access to higher education: many colleges offer free online courses and seminars. It is universally agreed that prisoners who have access to and take advantage of educational opportunities are more successful at re-establishing themselves back into society. Higher education includes using E-books. IDOC could have pre-approved sites for prisoners to enroll in college courses and this would create a business opportunity for a prisoner organization to partner with a small business to provide E-books and music.
- Prisoners could build relationships with religious groups and places of worship. Faith based groups would have the opportunity to create programs that assist prisoners with spiritual matters and do direct counseling. A prisoner could actually be an active member of a congregation which provides additional support during and after incarceration.
- Prisoners could strengthen the bond with their families; prison terms destroy family bonds and time, distance and costs dramatically impact families. A program could be created through the use of a mini tablet that allow prisoners to have more contact with aging parents, siblings and more actively participate in parenting. There is no greater motivation for a prisoner to change their lives and push for success than the love and conncection of family.