The objectives and goals of prison education are presented, as formulated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons in June 1972. Further, inmates who participated in the adult basic educational program at the Federal correctional institution at Terminal Island, Calif., were tabulated. In addition, a detailed plan and schedule of adult basic education classes offered at the Terminal Island facility were analyzed through classroom observation, teacher interviews, and use of a questionnaire. Also, 59 inmate participants in the adult basic educational program at Terminal Island were interviewed to determine their attitudes toward the basic adult education program. Whether or not Terminal Island education department was meeting the Bureau of Prison's educational goals was determined. Study data were collected in 1974. Study findings showed the Terminal Island inmates did have an opportunity to raise their adult basic education level; however, more encouragement for participation should be given to those who need such a program. Terminal Island was found to be successful in meeting the Federal Bureau of Prison's guidelines for an inmate adult basic education program. Inmate participants in the education program did develop a new interest in reading and in taking additional classes while imprisoned. Recommendations are to increase the incentive for participation in courses by shortening the prison time of participants, to improve library resources, to explore the feasibility of using female instructors, and to emphasize inmate promotion to the next higher educational level while in prison. Questionnaires for instructors and inmates are appended. Tabular and graphic data and 41 references are provided.