Is the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies a Useful Tool to Evaluate Preparedness for Automation of Jobs in the United States?

• In Event: 51.047 - Adult Education Populations: What Do We Know?

Abstract

Automation and advanced technologies have increased the importance of gaining a better understanding the skills necessary to have a globally competitive workforce. This study used data from the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies to compare problem solving in technology rich environments skills among adults in the US, Germany, Korea, and Singapore. Overall, the US had the lowest scores but in all countries, scores declined as age increased. The US had higher proportions of survey participants in the lowest skill category and lower proportions in the top skill categories. The results of this study suggest changes in the US education system may be necessary to ensure adults have necessary skills throughout their life.

Authors

• Phyllis A. Cummins, Miami University

• Takashi Yamashita, University of Maryland - Baltimore County