Smart Tablets Behind Bars: Revolutionising the Inmate Rehabilitation

Integrating digital technologies into correctional facilities can dramatically improve offender rehabilitation and reduce recidivism rates. This study aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the improvement needs of rehabilitation processes and digital technology options and to propose a problem-solving framework designed by engineering management tools. Based on the thematic literature review and field study with stakeholders in Türkiye, the designed project suggests integrating smart tablets into prisons, offering a controlled environment for education, psychological support and on-site work opportunities. By applying the Quality Function Deployment method, the requirements and the technological solutions for tablet usage are matched in an intervention canvas. Use case diagrams are also constructed to elaborate on the usage patterns and human system interactions in the proposed system. Tablets that are disconnected from the internet follow the rules and come with pre-loaded educational, therapeutic and vocational materials. This research sets the stage for a future where technology fosters second chances and dignified personal development within the incarcerated population.