The reasons for recidivism remaining a problem among prisoners, in spite of the fact that many prisoners may have received vocational training, may be based on: (1) the way education programs are implemented in various correctional institutions--without any over-all plan or strategy; and (2) the type of individual being educated. Many inmates are from minority groups or low socioeconomic levels and carry over, into corrections education, years of failure in the school system and a poor attitude. Some modifications of the traditional framework of education are being attempted in penal institutions in Pennsylvania. Emphasis is upon the unique learning characteristics and needs of the learner and individual differences. An academic center has been initiated within the prisons' vocational educational training programs. Upon entry, inmates are tested and their academic abilities are evaluated. Remedial work is needed for the majority of the students in reading and mathematics. Following this educational diagnosis, individualized education plans are drawn up for each student, and time is allowed for remedial instruction concurrent with the vocational education program. Case studies are presented of seven students: the diagnosis of needs arrived at by testing, the individualized education plan drawn up for the student, the educational materials selected to meet the individual's needs, the general progress of the student, and pre- and post-test results. (JD)