Once every ten years, a worldwide research study of OECD countries looks at the literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills of populations all over the world.
It’s called the PIACC (Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies), and 31 countries participated in the most recent survey, providing a mixed global picture of literacy and numeracy levels.
New Zealand participated in this worldwide survey in 2014 and again in 2022-23 and the results are in.
- We scored close to the OECD average in literacy (260 points)
In literacy, 26% of adults scored at Level 1 or below, meaning they have low literacy proficiency. At Level 1, they can understand short texts and organised lists when information is clearly indicated, find specific information and identify relevant links.
- Below the OECD average in numeracy (256 points)
In numeracy, 28% of adults (OECD average: 25%) scored at or below Level 1 proficiency. At Level 1, they can do basic maths with whole numbers or money, understand decimals, and find single pieces of information in tables or charts, but may struggle with tasks needing multiple steps (e.g. solving a proportion). Those below Level 1 can add and subtract small numbers.
- And close to the OECD average in adaptive problem solving in a technology rich environment (249 points)
In adaptive problem solving, 29% of adults (OECD average: 29%) scored at or below Level 1 proficiency. Adults at Level 1 can solve simple problems with few variables and little irrelevant information, which do not change as they make progress towards the solution.
It’s worth taking a closer look at what this skill includes. Adaptive problem solving in this context means the problem is dynamic, there is no one solution, and technology is often involved. So, it’s tapping into solution focused thinking, digital literacy and ability to cope with ever changing issues such as those we often face at work.
How should we interpret the New Zealand results?
In adult education we often say that the best way to measure success is progress against yourself – but for NZ, the reality is we’re not heading in the right direction. Our results from the latest PIACC went down compared to 2014-15 in literacy and numeracy. Drops between 2014 and 2022-23 were particularly large in New Zealand and were strongest among lower-performing adults. In both numeracy and literacy, the share of adults scoring at Level 1 or below increased. (Survey of Adult Skills New Zealand, 2023)
Why does it matter?
When a country’s skills lift, everyone benefits.
- Everyone has the right skills to achieve in their everyday roles, leading to productivity and engagement
- Individual incomes go up as well as we see a ‘bootstrapping’ effect – once your skills lift, you’re more likely to become a lifelong learner, which in turn means….an increase in wages as individuals get promoted, and so on…
- Higher skills mean improved performance for industry, increased productivity, leading to higher GDP per capita
- Research shows that health, wellbeing and sense of civic engagement increase
- Lower levels of unemployment
- Reduced financial stress
- Increased lifelong learning
- Higher literacy levels are linked to better health outcomes—people are more likely to understand medical instructions and make informed health decisions.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by statistics like this – then, we lose the chance for real change.
What can we do about it?
Make maximum use of available funding to support your employees
-The Workplace literacy and numeracy fund exists to raise foundation level skills of employees. You may not even realise you have an issue, so engage with a free needs analysis to get a sense of where your team is at, and what help you could leverage to create both individual and companywide success. Programmes are tailormade to the needs of your organisation and success metrics built in.
-Project Ikuna is a culturally responsive learning suite of micro credentials to grow the skills of your Pacific employees in the greater Auckland region. Funded through providers via Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, this project is award winning and hugely impactful.
-The Ministry of Social Development has targeted funding available to employers who support individuals coming off an unemployment benefit and into work. Skills for Industry helps successfully transition with the assistance of training and mentoring to help individuals re-enter the workforce.
Drive industry wide initiatives attached to clear pay and career progression
Make digital upskilling a priority. Digital skills and mindset can be included in workplace literacy programmes to drive confidence and competence. Make digital resources available to your staff, including access. With gen AI now a key feature of the digital landscape, digital safety alongside skills are also necessary.
Click here for the full PIACC NZ report and data.
Talk to us today to get a snapshot of where your organisation’s literacy and numeracy skills might sit and check out how a programme could give your staff a boost:
