The Influence of Literacy, Numeracy, Technological Problem-Solving Skills, and Post-Initial Learning on Self-Reported Health: Insights From the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies

• In Event: 33.044 - Influences Related to Literacy, Numeracy, and Critical Adult Skills

Abstract

This paper uses PIAAC (Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies) data to analyze the relationship between self-reported health and (a) literacy, numeracy, ICT skills and (b) post-initial education for U.S. respondents, including variation by race/ethnicity and educational attainment. Literacy has more influence on health than numeracy or ICT skills, but it matters far less than several control variables. Courses/private lessons and seminars/workshops significantly increased the chances of reporting better health. The relationship between self-rated health and post-initial education is the same across racial/ethnic groups, and all except “other race” (native/indigenous Americans) reap equal health rewards from literacy, numeracy, and ICT skills. The study elucidates how various types of skills and post-initial education are related to self-reported health.

Authors

• Esther Prins, The Pennsylvania State University

• Shannon Monnat

• Carol Clymer

• Blaire Willson Toso, The Pennsylvania State University