Beyond the Bars, Breaking Barriers towards Digital Inclusion: Family Visits through ICT-Based “E-Dalaw” as Innovation in the Reformation Program of the Maximum Security Inmates of the New Bilibid Prison, Philippines

Abstract

Information Communication Technologies (ICT)’s enabling power of bringing about participation fosters social and digital inclusion, and supports the Philippines’ development goal of “Inclusive Growth”. The country’s Correctional System piloted an ICT-based program called “e-Dalaw,” that enables inmates to connect to their families regularly. This is in line with modern reformation concepts, as prison visits were found to be associated with reduced recidivism. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) Theory as framework, survey was done among 330 inmates of the Maximum Security Compound of the New Bilibid Prison to determine their knowledge, attitudes, and practices on the technology and related these variables with their socio-demographic characteristics. Problems and recommendations were explained. Purposive sampling was done in accordance with government regulations. Key officials were interviewed for qualitative data. Results of the study showed that the respondents had average knowledge on e-Dalaw, who became aware of it through social influence (in UTAUT). Happiness was the most perceived usefulness/outcome expectation. E-dalaw was perceived to be complicated (perceived ease of use/effort expectancy), as assistance was always needed. The facilitating conditions were availability of resources. Using the Behavior Change Communication model, inmates who were satisfied with the technology promoted the behavior to their social networks, implying advocacy. Chi-Square Test of Independence established significant relationships between knowledge and attitude, and between knowledge and practices. Among the socio-demographic characteristics, last visitation received was the most significant factor affecting knowledge, indicating that social influence is a determinant of technological knowledge.

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Author Information
Marjorie Don Resuello, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines
Rosario V. Tatlonghari, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines

• Category: Education, Technology and Society: Technologies, Knowledge Creation and Access

Posted by James Alexander Gordon

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