Unbound Learning: A Collaborative Study

This paper represents an initial collaboration between CAEL (the Council for Adult and
Experiential Learning) and College Unbound (CU). CAEL and CU have
long been in one another’s orbits; each supporting adult learning and learning in
nontraditional ways for decades. This collaboration began in January, 2024 with
a goal to develop a program that offers work-based learning opportunities for
formerly incarcerated adult learners. The report that follows:

• Highlights learning that occurs through incarceration and reentry process;
• Makes the case for honoring that learning with college credit;
• Identifies employer best practices in supporting formerly incarcerated learners;
• Identifies gaps in resources and support services for the justice-involved; and
• Offers a roadmap for next steps with CAEL, College Unbound, and the larger employer-educator ecosystem.