International literacy statistics: a review of concepts, methodology and current data

Abstract

Many would argue that literacy is one of the most neglected goals of the movement towards Education for All. Several Asian countries have reported spectacular progress since the 1990s. Yet globally, the numbers and distributions of illiterate adults have hardly changed over the past 50 years primarily because of population growth. This report traces paradigm shifts in the understanding and measurement of literacy over the past five decades. It provides analysis of the current situation based on conventional statistics, while explaining changes in UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) methodologies and measures. For researchers and practitioners in international development, it serves as a practical guide on the interpretation of conventional literacy statistics. It also highlights emerging statistical issues and methodologies, including the use of assessment data produced through initiatives such as the Literacy Assessment and Monitoring Programme of the UIS.

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