Exploring profiles of engagement in reading, numeracy, writing, and computer skills-use of U.S. adults with low literacy skills

Abstract

This study uses Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) data to examine latent profiles of engagement in reading, numeracy, writing, and computer skills-use for U.S. adults with low literacy skills. Additionally, we examine how these profiles relate to overall literacy performance and demographic heterogeneity. Results indicate five engagement profiles: High (8%), Average-High (44%), Average-Low (40%), and two generally Low profiles that are most differentiated on numeracy skills-use engagement (5.5%, 2%). High and Average-High engagement profiles had higher probabilities of adults scoring at a higher literacy level than the Average-Low profile and to a greater degree than the lowest engagement profile. Covariates of learning disability status, English speaker status, race, ethnicity, age, and educational attainment were also related to differences in literacy performance and skills-use engagement. Employment status was unrelated to differences in literacy performance and skills-use engagement. Generally, native English speakers, non-learning disabled adults, younger adults, those identifying as non-Hispanic and White, and adults with higher educational attainment (high school/some college and college degree or higher) had higher probabilities of higher literacy performance, particularly in the High and Average-High engagement profiles. Findings have implications for increasing skills-use engagement in daily life to increase literacy performance and suggest differences by demographic characteristics that may be of interest to adult foundational education programs.