Alternative Learning System (ALS) as a Tool for Social Reintegration: Former Inmate Learners' Perspective
Saved in:
| Title: | Alternative Learning System (ALS) as a Tool for Social Reintegration: Former Inmate Learners' Perspective |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Rogelio C. Sala (ORCID |
| Source: | International Journal on Social and Education Sciences. 2026 8(1):31-40. |
| Availability: | International Society for Technology, Education, and Science. ISTES Organization, Monument, CO 80132. e-mail: istesorganization@gmail.com; e-mail: ijonsesoffice@gmail.com; Web site: https://www.ijonses.net/index.php/ijonses |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 10 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: | Foreign Countries, Nontraditional Education, Educational Opportunities, Institutionalized Persons, Correctional Education, Correctional Institutions, Social Integration, Student Attitudes, Graduates, Public Opinion, Negative Attitudes, Outcomes of Education, Program Implementation, Barriers, Student Empowerment, Educational Attainment |
| Geographic Terms: | Philippines |
| ISSN: | 2688-7061 |
| Abstract: | The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is a vital tool for rehabilitating Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the Philippines; however, its success in social reintegration is poorly understood from the learners' long-term, post-release perspectives. To address this critical gap, this qualitative case study investigated the long-term experiences of six (n=6) former BJMP inmate learners who completed the ALS program and successfully transitioned back into society. Thematic analysis revealed that ALS functions as a profound internal catalyst, providing essential tangible educational attainment (e.g., a diploma) and fostering significant psychological and social empowerment (e.g., renewed confidence, reduced shame). Despite this internal transformation, the study's central finding is that ALS's long-term efficacy is ultimately compromised by external, systemic barriers. Specifically, the absence of mandated post-release follow-up from correctional institutions, coupled with pervasive societal stigma and prejudice from employers and the community, effectively neutralizes the educational achievement. The findings highlight a crucial need for policy intervention that shifts the focus from solely providing education to mandating sustained post-release support and actively combating societal prejudice, ensuring ALS fulfills its potential as a true tool for successful social reintegration. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1494485 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is a vital tool for rehabilitating Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the Philippines; however, its success in social reintegration is poorly understood from the learners' long-term, post-release perspectives. To address this critical gap, this qualitative case study investigated the long-term experiences of six (n=6) former BJMP inmate learners who completed the ALS program and successfully transitioned back into society. Thematic analysis revealed that ALS functions as a profound internal catalyst, providing essential tangible educational attainment (e.g., a diploma) and fostering significant psychological and social empowerment (e.g., renewed confidence, reduced shame). Despite this internal transformation, the study's central finding is that ALS's long-term efficacy is ultimately compromised by external, systemic barriers. Specifically, the absence of mandated post-release follow-up from correctional institutions, coupled with pervasive societal stigma and prejudice from employers and the community, effectively neutralizes the educational achievement. The findings highlight a crucial need for policy intervention that shifts the focus from solely providing education to mandating sustained post-release support and actively combating societal prejudice, ensuring ALS fulfills its potential as a true tool for successful social reintegration. |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 2688-7061 |