What is Literacy?
The Adult Literacy and Numeracy in Scotland (ALNIS) report gives a definition as:
" The ability to read, write and use numeracy, to handle information, to express ideas and opinions, to make decisions and solve problems, as family members, workers, citizens and lifelong learners".
How is Adult Literacy Measured?
Literacy can be measured in a number of different ways. Standardised reading and spelling tests will give an indication of general ability, but they can't reflect the variety of contexts in which an adult uses literacy skills.
In Scotland the learner is at the centre, taking account of the individual adult's needs in day to day life. These needs can vary in different contexts and relate to the adult's lifestyle, employment, interests and aspirations. This is known as the Social Practice model.
To determine the literacy skills of adults in the UK , the 1997 Adult Literacy Survey used test items that were designed to resemble everyday life.
How many people in Scotland have low literacy and numeracy skills?
Very few adults in Scotland cannot read or write. However the International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS) of 1996, indicated that 23% of the Scottish population, around 800,000 adults perform at the lowest level of a 5-point scale measuring literacy and a similar proportion perform at the lowest level on numeracy measures.
How does literacy in Scotland compare with other countries?
The International Adult Literacy Study (IALS), in 1996 compared the literacy skills of adults in 25 countries including Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland , Sweden, Switzerland and the United States.
When all the participating countries are ranked in order of literacy levels, the UK is shown as being in the lower end of the range. This suggests that Scotland would also be in this range.
If you have literacy and numeracy problems does it mean you have learning disabilities?
Not necessarily. Some people missed out at school due to ill health, difficult family circumstances or disrupted education. Others have lost skills they once had through lack of any opportunities to use them or because of lack of confidence.
What is International Literacy Day?
UNESCO has designated the 8th September as International Literacy Day. The aim of International Literacy Day is to raise literacy awareness throughout the world. Many international organisations arrange events to coincide with this date.
How do I find a nearby literacy or numeracy learning opportunity?
The Big Plus is the national awareness raising campaign, and adults can find out about learning opportunities by calling the free helpline 0808 100 1080 or through the Big Plus website www.thebigplus.com/.
Other sources of information includes libraries, community and health centres, adult guidance networks, job centres and further education colleges.
Where can I get the training or qualifications I need to work as a tutor in this area?
Adult Literacy and Numeracy Partnerships offer introductory training in adult literacies work for in each local authority area. This training can lead to a Professional Development Award in adult literacies work.
What should I do if someone I know is having problems with literacy or numeracy?
Reassure them that they are not alone. Make sure they are aware that there are learning programmes designed to meet their needs whether they want to improve their writing, number or reading skills. If necessary, help them to find out what is locally available by phoning the free Big Plus helpline on 0808 100 1080. It often takes time to take the first steps back into learning so do not rush them but do give them any encouragement they need. It is never too late to learn.
Why should we support literacy and numeracy?
It is widely recognised that basic literacy and numeracy skills are central to the prosperity and welfare of our society. Scotland needs to improve the skills of those currently at work in order to be able to compete in the world market. But literacy affects more than just the country's prosperity and individual job prospects. People need to be literate in order to participate fully as members of society, as parents, and to lead fulfilling lives. In a time of rapid change, the demands on individual literacy and numeracy skills are likely to increase rather than reduce.
Shouldn't we concentrate on young people, instead of people who have already had their chance to learn?
There is already a number of government initiatives with specific performance targets in schools to improve standards of literacy and numeracy. The role of parents is also seen as critical in developing literacy in young people, especially at the pre-school and early primary stage. However, there is a need nationally to give everyone an opportunity to get skills needed for employment. It is also essential that those already in work have the skills to develop new specialist IT skills and the personal skills which globalisation is making increasingly necessary.