A Product System for Meaningful Work, Rehabilitation, and Social Well-Being in Correctional Contexts

Abstract

This chapter explores the benefits of making as a tool for corrective rehabilitation, education and social wellbeing. Through a design-led research approach the team developed a new product system as part of a University Industry Collaboration (UIC) project with the manufacturing division of an adult correctional facility. The UIC research involved a formative study of four correction centres to determine capabilities with respect to the available technology and expertise. A new product system incorporating simple high-quality components was designed, enabling repeatable, industry compatible processes and universal access for a fluctuating labour force. Significantly, the research demonstrates that continued collaboration between university-based product design research units and manufacturing systems in correctional facilities should adopt a strategic approach to the development of products and practices. The research develops a series of principles for part and assembly design that we consider encourage positive educational and meaningful social well-being outcomes.