This class design emphasizes experiential learning and reflection.
Accordingly, presentation of concepts is kept to a minimum and is embedded
in Guided Group Discussion. Participants are encouraged to learn through
practice first and then followed by discussion.
Similarly, most lessons end with one or more kinds of structured reflection.
Students should keep reflection worksheets in their Habits Portfolio.
Instructors may also choose to have students share their reflections in a
large group. Reflection activity helps offenders personalize and internalize
their learning and apply this learning to life outside the classroom.
Not all students learn the same way, and in any classroom there will be
students who are comfortable writing and students who are not. For this
reason, many lessons include optional teaching activities to accommodate a
variety of learning styles, ages, genders, abilities, and reading grade levels.
Instructors should adapt their teaching methods and activities to meet their
students’ needs.
Department of Corrections residents are called “offenders” or “students,”
because they all are enrolled in the Community High School of Vermont.
Instructors should use another name, such as “inmates,” according to the
custom of their corrections system.