Literacy in Ireland
What is literacy?
In the past literacy was considered to be the ability to read and write. Today the meaning of literacy has changed to reflect changes in society and the skills needed by individuals to participate fully in society. It involves listening, speaking, reading, writing, numeracy and using everyday technology to communicate and handle information.
Literacy increases the opportunity for individuals and communities to reflect on their situation, explore new possibilities and initiate change.
Extent of literacy difficulties
According to the last international survey, one in four or 25% of Irish adults have literacy difficulties. This compares with 3% in Sweden and 5% in Germany. Most adults with literacy difficulties can read something but find it hard to understand official forms or deal with modern technology. Some will have left school confident about their numeracy and reading skills but find that changes in their workplace and everyday life make their skills inadequate. The literacy skills demanded by society are changing all the time.
What is the impact of having a literacy difficulty?
Having a literacy difficulty often means you are not able to understand health and safety information, how Government organisations work, go for promotion, complete a driver theory exam or vote. Equally, parents who have literacy difficulties may be unable to support their own children with their reading and writing. Currently in Ireland up to 30% of children from disadvantaged areas leave primary school with literacy difficulties.
