Frequently asked questions

• What is the International Study of Adults (ISA)?
• Why is Canada conducting this study?
• How many other countries are participating?
• How was I selected for this study?
• What is meant by literacy in ISA?
• What is meant by numeracy in ISA?
• What is meant by problem solving in a technology-rich environment in ISA?
• When will the results of this study be published? How can I get a copy of the results?
  

What is the International Study of Adults (ISA)?

The International Study of Adults (ISA) is a comprehensive international study that will examine adult skills and competencies consistently across 26 participating countries. It is a collaboration between several national and international groups, including the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The study will focus on the key skills and experiences that are required for individuals to participate successfully in the economy, and look at how this affects society as a whole.

Why is Canada conducting this study?

This study will provide valuable information to educators, policymakers and educational researchers on the current skills and experiences of Canadian adults. This information will be used to develop programs to improve the skills adults need in order to participate most successfully in the economy and society of the 21st century. The more skilled we are in using information and tools, the more effectively we can participate in the workplace, in political processes, in our communities and at home, both now and in the future.

How many other countries are participating?

In 2011, 26 countries will be participating in the collection of ISA:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Chile, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Estonia, Russia, Slovak, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States.

How was I selected for this study?

ISA is a dwelling based study. This means that households from across Canada are chosen at random to participate. Once we gather information from all the people living in a home, an individual between the ages of 16 and 65 inclusively is chosen to complete the interview.

For the results to be accurate, Statistics Canada must interview only those households/individuals that are randomly selected. Your answers will represent the answers of many other households/individuals; if we cannot interview you, the households/individuals you represent in the sample will not be reflected in the study.
Results from the study will help educational policy makers and researchers to make better programs and policies to serve the needs of Canadians. These policies may directly affect you or your family.

What is meant by literacy in ISA?

Literacy is the ability to understand and use information from written texts in a variety of contexts to achieve goals and further develop knowledge and potential. Previous studies have shown reading literacy to be closely linked to positive outcomes among the workforce, in social participation and in lifelong learning.

What is meant by numeracy in ISA?

Numeracy is the ability to use, apply, interpret and communicate mathematical information and ideas. It is an essential skill in an age when individuals encounter an increasing amount and wider range of quantitative and mathematical information in their daily lives.

What is meant by problem solving in a technology-rich environment in ISA?

This refers to the ability to use technology to solve problems and accomplish complex tasks. It is not a measurement of “computer literacy” but rather of the cognitive skills required in the information age – an age in which the accessibility of boundless information has made it essential for us to be able to work out what information we need, to evaluate it critically and to use it to solve problems.

When will the results of this study be published? How can I get a copy of the results?

It is anticipated that the ISA results will be released in late 2013.