ALEC graduates responsible for NZ’s improved literacy rating?

Well, it’s impossible to prove really, but the new data from the latest research is out. And here’s what you need to know so far:

• The latest data comes from the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC).
• This updates the 2006 ALLS survey.

According to the National Centre for Adult Literacy and Numeracy to Adults (NCLANA), New Zealand adults score on average above the OECD average and are ranked:

• 4th highest in Literacy.
• 13th highest in Numeracy.
• 5th highest in and Problem Solving in Technology-Rich Environments – while having the highest proportion of adults with moderate to high problem-solving skills.

But how do we compare with other countries? That seems to be the answer on everyone’s lips. I’m not sure it’s the right question. But here you go… again from the NCLANA:

• New Zealand adults’ average skills in Literacy and Problem Solving in Technology-Rich Environments are similar to those of Australia, and higher than those in England/Northern Ireland and the United States.
• In Numeracy New Zealand adults’ average skills are higher than those of Australia, Canada, England/Northern Ireland and the United States.

And what about stats for Maori and Pasifika?

• Literacy skills have increased for the total population since 1996 and increased at a faster rate for Māori and Pasifika since 2006.
• Meanwhile, Numeracy skills have remained static for the total population since 2006 and increased for Māori and Pasifika since 2006.

That’s a load of comparison data… It looks like someone needs to drill down into this a bit more and tell us what it means for NZ. Any takers?