The project aimed to develop a comprehensive blended learning curriculum that combines classroom and VR-based training to enhance detainees’ ICS skills and civic values in a workplace context. The curriculum focused on 3 key types of workplace interactions: communication with clients, collaboration with colleagues, and interactions with managers. The methodology is designed to be practical, emotional, and relational, emphasizing real-life work-related scenarios that detainees are likely to encounter. By improving detainees’ listening skills, prosocial responding, conflict resolution, and problem-solving abilities, the project seeks to increase their post-release confidence, occupational well-being, and overall ability to engage in productive employment. Additionally, the project aimed to empower prison staff by training them in effective communication strategies to foster a more supportive learning environment. Through these efforts, RECOMMIT sets the foundation for detainees, prisons, and communities to utilize workplace relationships as a tool for successful reintegration and crime prevention.
The RECOMMIT project was developed to address the significant challenges pre-release detainees face in reintegrating into the workforce and society. Many detainees struggle to secure and maintain employment due to stigma, limited formal education, and conflict-driven communication styles that hinder workplace adaptation. Social reintegration is a key European priority, as reoffending carries both high financial costs and negative societal impacts. The project focused on equipping detainees with essential interpersonal communication skills (ICS) within workplace settings, fostering prosocial values, and reinforcing civic engagement. To overcome traditional educational barriers, RECOMMIT utilized an innovative blended learning approach, integrating classroom-based instruction with immersive virtual reality (VR) training. This method enables detainees to practice workplace interactions in a safe and controlled environment, improving their ability to navigate professional relationships and support their long-term reintegration into society.