LE3 .A278 2007

2007

Day, Deborah

Acadia University

Master of Education

Masters

Counselling

Education

This research illustrates the integral role of five components of an alternative education program for at risk and incarcerated adolescent male students, and specifically describes how the components contribute to the program's success. This research was conducted throughout a five month school-term at an alternative education program operated by the Correctional Services Division of the Nova Scotia Department of Justice. This thesis presents an overview of the alternative school from the perspectives of the students, the program staff, and me, acting in the role of a participant observer. These five contributing components are: normalizing student experiences of difficulty, staff perseverance in working towards student success, the flexible nature of the program structure, a flexible approach to program consequences, and the development of positive relationships between the program staff and students. These components serve to counteract the effects of adversity experienced by many students who access alternative education.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2995