Technology Engagement of African American Adjudicated Youth

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to investigate African American youth's inability to access internet and computer technology while in a court-ordered probation diversion program. Specifically, honing in on the youth engagement related to personal growth, motivation, and cognitive skills. This paper selected administrative officials and African American students age 18 that have successfully completed the program and live within the city limits of Seattle, WA. A triangulation method will be used to collect data to ensure the study can be viable and reliable. Data collection included semi-structured interviews, survey, and artifact findings. The research questions that guided this study were as follows: 1. What is the role of diversion programs in a pandemic? 2. What is the long-term plan for improvement for access in the Step Up diversion program? 3. Has the pandemic further exacerbated access issues or added further barriers? The importance of understanding how technology can play a role in developmental advancement for at-risk African American youth is vital. Labeling, critical race, and the engagement theory will be the theoretical frameworks to guide the study. The conceptual frameworks that will be a part of this study are the juvenile justice system, diversion programs, and technology engagement in a diversion program for an African American adjudicated youth. Assumptions, limitations, and implications will be discussed in the study. Keywords: Adjudicated, Diversion, African American, Technology, Engagement, Cognitive Skills