Reflective learning through the study of autobiographical accounts: a module on prison lives

This article reviews the use of autobiographical material and prisoner memoirs in a module for undergraduate students. Teaching and learning on prisoner and prison staff experiences can be problematic, given the closed nature of prisons. Prison tours and visits can raise ethical issues. In this article the authors reflect on their experiences of introducing students to films, diaries, autobiographies, diaries, poems and memoirs written by prisoners and prison staff. The article is based on primary research conducted by the authors with their student group.