Global Trends in Literacy and Science Skills: Analysis and Future Projections Based on PISA Data
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Reading Literacy, Mathematics Literacy, Science Literacy, Time Series Analysis, The PISA, The OECD
Abstract
Reading, mathematics, and science literacy are crucial for individual and societal progress. This study explored and projected global trends in these essential skills, with particular emphasis on the countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Using data from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) between 2000 and 2022, we performed a time-series analysis employing Auto-Regressive and Moving Average algorithms to uncover trends. Our key findings reveal a stable global reading literacy rate, with expected increases in the future; a stable global mathematics literacy rate, accompanied by short-term improvements; and a stable global science literacy rate, demonstrating short-term gains followed by consistently high levels. The findings also point to a concerning decline in mathematical literacy among OECD countries since 2005. This troubling trend, likely to persist, emphasises the urgent need for effective strategies to enhance mathematical competence to ensure future economic sustainability.
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