Statistical Literacy: Statistics Canada Initiatives

DLI National Workshop

May 14, 2007

Montreal

Statistical Literacy

“the ability to interpret and critically evaluate statistical information and data related arguments….. and the ability to discuss their reactions to statistical information, such as their understanding of the meaning of the information or their concerns regarding the acceptability of given conclusions….”

Iddo Gall, “Adult’s Statistical Literacy”

International Statistical Review, April 2002

Issues for Statistics Canada

In an electronic dissemination environment• Do our users understand the concepts and

measures they are using?• Are they using the correct information and

are they using the information correctly?• How can we enhance the “statistical

literacy” of our website users

Statistical Literacy: STC Website Users

1998 “Canadian Statistics” Usability Study• 32% of participants found answers to all three

test questions• 30% of those who found answers, found incorrect

answers

Conclusions• labeling and navigation of module not intuitive• statistical concepts and measures not well

understood

Statistical Literacy of Canadians

2003 Adult Literacy and Life Skills Survey

Numeracy• the knowledge and skills required to

effectively manage and respond to the mathematical demands of diverse situations

Five level scoring guide• Level 3: an understanding of mathematical

information represented in different forms such as numbers, symbols, graphs, maps, text

Statistical Literacy of Canadians

• 50% of Canadians achieved level 3 in numeracy

• 58% of college graduates and 75% of university graduates achieved level 3 or higher

• 65% - 85% of knowledge workers above level 3

• 50% of service/goods workers above level 3

Statistics Canada Initiatives

Website improvements• search and navigation• integrated links to “Definitions, data sources

and methods”• effective communications through the media• regional workshops and outreach• analytical studies

DLI

Education Outreach

Statistics Canada and e-learning

Statistics Finland model

2007 Website Survey• 45% of respondents indicated interest

in online tutorials• follow-up e-mail survey underway

National Accounts pilot