Advancing Corrections Journal - Edition #19 - Excellence in Juvenile Justice Policy and Practice | Article 10 (ACJ19-A010)

Article 10: Enhancing Education and Vocational Training for Youth in Detention Facilities Through Technology: The Triangle Solution (ACJ19-A010) by Sofia Almeida, Heloisa Becker & Claire Machan

Abstract

This paper explores the critical need for safe internet access in youth detention facilities to foster digital literacy, social skills, and successful reintegration into society. It introduces the Triangle Platform, a secure digital solution developed by organizations from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Portugal, offering structured and controlled online educational resources. The platform's implementation in Portugal highlights its potential to enhance personal development, employability, and social responsibility among institutionalized youth, while addressing security challenges and promoting digital inclusion.

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Authors

Sofia Almeida

Consultant and Researcher, IPS Innovative Prison Systems, Portugal

Sofia Almeida holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Beira Interior in Covilhã, Portugal, and a master’s degree in criminology from the Faculty of Law at the University of Porto, Portugal. She is currently pursuing an Advanced Specialisation in Sexual Violence at the CRIAP Institute. Her master’s dissertation, titled "Rapist Offenders and Sexual Abuser of Minors Offenders: A Comparative Study through TriPM, BIS/BAS and CAPP-SR," involved research conducted across four prison establishments in northern Portugal. Sofia analyzed psychopathy and inhibition levels in two distinct groups of sexual offenders. This hands-on data collection provided her with invaluable insights into offender behavior and the psychological mechanisms underlying their actions. Professionally, Sofia works in IPS_Innovative Prison Systems, where she works on the Rehabilitation, Reintegration & Community Portfolio within the Unit for Risk Prevention & Criminogenic Intervention. She is also actively involved in the Radicalization, Violent Extremism and Organized Crime Portfolio, operating under the Unit for Security and Criminal Justice Cooperation. Her work focuses on fostering safer communities through targeted interventions and collaborative efforts in criminal justice.

Heloisa Becker

Consultant & Researcher, IPS_Innovative Prison Systems, Portugal

Heloisa Becker has a strong background in law and a passion for driving positive social change. Holding a bachelor’s degree in law and a postgraduate degree in Citizenship and Human Rights in the context of Public Policy from Brazil, Heloisa has also recently completed her Master’s degree in Social Policy at ISCSP/University of Lisbon. Her research focused on the challenges faced by female offenders in the re-entry process.
With experience in the field of public policies and in social projects, particularly within non-governmental organisations, Heloisa has worked with young offenders in the Social-educational System in Brazil, gaining valuable insights into the complexities of their rehabilitation process. In addition, Heloisa has valuable experience working with restorative justice practices and has actively participated in restorative justice initiatives.
Driven by her passion for criminal justice, Heloisa is determined to leverage her skills and knowledge to drive positive change in this field.

Claire Machan

Rehabilitation, Reintegration and Community Portfolio Coordinator, IPS_Innovative Prison Systems, Portugal

Claire Machan is the Rehabilitation, Reintegration, and Community Portfolio Coordinator at IPS. She holds a BSc in Criminology and Psychology (UNSW), a PgCert and Honours in Psychological Science (ACAP), a Master of Forensic Mental Health, and is upon completion of her PhD in Experimental Legal Psychology at UCL. With over eight years of experience lecturing and research supervision in applied psychology, she has also led educational workshops with HMPPS, MET Police, Victim Support, military professionals, and ex-offenders. Claire is an Expert Member of the ICPA Juvenile Justice Committee, a founding member of the International Working Group on Public Safety & People of Determination, and an active member of international research societies, including EAPL, BPS, APA, and SJDM.

Advancing Corrections Journal - Edition #19 - Excellence in Juvenile Justice Policy and Practice | Article 10 (ACJ19-A010)

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