Assessing Literacy Skills Training Needs of Persons Deprived of Liberty: A Study in a City in Region 8, Philippines

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between demographic and contextual factors (age, sex, length of incarceration, and educational background) and the literacy skills training needs of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) in a City in Region 8, Philippines. A total of 80 participants, actively enrolled in literacy programs within correctional facilities, were included in the study. The primary objective is to inform the design of effective literacy training programs, contributing to an extension program to be implemented for the 2025 Lifelong Learning framework. The findings revealed significant variations in literacy training needs based on participants' educational backgrounds, with high demand for digital literacy, spoken communication, and vocabulary proficiency. In contrast, factors such as age, sex, and length of incarceration showed no significant correlation with literacy training needs. Most respondents had educational backgrounds of high school or lower, emphasizing the need for tailored programs that address both foundational and advanced literacy skills. Based on these findings, the study recommends developing literacy programs that prioritize inclusivity and adaptability, integrating digital tools and contextual learning to enhance post-incarceration employability and societal reintegration.