Data Literacy

Why does data literacy matter?

Data, alongside other forms of information, is a key resource for decision-making in our professional and personal lives. Even as we generate and consume more data in our daily lives, it can be challenging to keep up with new ideas and technologies that help us make sense of the world through data.

Data literacy is an important skillset that empowers individuals and a vital capacity for organizations to enable data informed decision-making. We are working to expand both individual and organizational capacity to use data to achieve our goals. These skills are foundational for the responsible use of data while using data and analytics to improve student outcomes, operate efficiently, and be a leader in the effective and innovative use of data.

What do we mean by data literacy?

“The data literate individual understands, explains and documents the utility and limitations of data by becoming a critical consumer of data, controlling his/her personal data trail, finding meaning and taking action based on data. S/he can identify, collect, evaluate, analyze, interpret, present and protect data.”

(Education Development Center, 2016, https://oceansofdata.org/projects/building-global-interest-data-literacy-dialogue)

Data Literacy Program

Our first step is to explore and consider existing data literacy frameworks. Once a framework is selected and adapted, it will become the foundational structure on which we locate existing training programs and informal learning opportunities. This structure and mapping will empower individuals to assess their abilities and select areas for growth based on the needs of their data roles. It will also facilitate a shared understanding of data literacy across a variety of contexts and data roles, even as the specific terminology, processes, and tools may vary.