Identify learning goals. For example, some might chose to focus on literacy skills or computer skills or both. If you do not have a high school diploma, earn a General Education Development, or GED, diploma. Having such skills could help obtain future employment.
Identify resources. Possibilities include correspondence courses, on-site arts education programs, jobs that teach skills or independent reading. Seek correspondence courses through local community colleges. Arts education programs may be brought in through local arts centers or outreach programs. Some prisons have on-site arts coordinators who arrange guest speakers. Check with the prison's recreational therapist. Seek jobs in prison that lead to applicable skills, such as culinary and welding programs. Make use of the prison library. Books can be ordered from other libraries as well.
Practice writing no matter how much experience you already have. Ask for help with writing. Seek classes through the recreational therapist. Form a writing group with a more experienced inmate as mentor. Write letters, stories or essays. Track your learning progress. Writing develops critical thinking and organizational skills. Seek opportunities to speak to further develop communication skills. Listen to others' ideas in learning situations.
Develop a schedule for reading, writing, reinforcing previous learning and studying new topics that builds upon the assigned schedule. Track goals. Advocate for your own education by asking to be placed in classes. According to a December 2006 article by James Sterngold on the San Francisco Chronicle's website, in California, "Just 6 percent of inmates are in academic classes, and 5 percent attend vocational classes." Check guidelines for your state on inmate education. Some state require a minimum educational level be provided.
Read as widely and as much as possible by making use of the library. Watch the television news and listen to news on the radio. Stay connected to news events and cultural trends in the outside world.