Ivor Callely
Ceist:188 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education the identified factors that contribute to adult literacy and juvenile literacy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2893/94]
Written Answers. - Adult and Juvenile Literacy.
Surveys of achievement in reading literacy have identified a number of important factors which contribute to the development of reading literacy skills. When reading is valued and engaged in regularly in the home by parents, when parents read to children regularly and introduce them to books at an early stage, children usually become proficient readers. Other factors which are important for juvenile literacy include regular attendance at school, the number of years spent in the education system and access to an effective programme of reading and writing instruction.
The factors which contribute to adult literacy include a satisfactory level of literacy skills on leaving formal education, regular use of literacy skills throughout adult life and access to programmes which help to maintain and develop literacy skills.
In recent years, I have significantly increased the number of remedial teachers at first and second level with a view to improving standards of literacy.
Funding for the adult literacy and community education scheme has been substantially increased also in recent years. A survey of this scheme furnished by the Education Research Centre, Drumcondra, found that the scheme was meeting the needs of adults with literacy difficulties who sought help.
A national survey on adult literacy levels among adults has been commissioned from the Education Research Centre, Drumcondra, the report on which is due in early 1996.