While two-way communication is technically possible in correctional facilities, it poses social and political challenges. This article explores the complexities surrounding two-way communication within correctional settings and our efforts to enable it for educational and rehabilitative purposes.

In correctional agencies, there is a conflict regarding what communication they are comfortable allowing without robust monitoring tools. Tablet providers, who often control communication services within these agencies, are hesitant to introduce new communication streams that are not part of their existing package.

We are currently collaborating with ViaPath and Securus, the two largest telecommunication and tablet providers in corrections, to explore enabling two-way communication. However, these discussions and subsequent integrations are expected to take time.

At present, we facilitate essentially one-way communication streams where content providers can ask questions or implement surveys on the Edovo platform. Learners then respond, and we can provide de-identified responses through a premium analytics dashboard back to the content provider.

While enabling two-way communication in correctional facilities presents challenges, we are actively working towards solutions that support educational and rehabilitative goals. Through collaboration with providers and content partners, we aim to enhance communication channels for the benefit of incarcerated individuals.