Policy Brief 1 - Skills and needs data and analysis

This policy brief, deriving from the iRead4Skills project – a Research & Innovation Action funded by the European Commission, presents an in-depth analysis of skills and needs data focusing on reading improvement systems for adult literacy. Addressing the challenges and opportunities in adult education and vocational training, the brief offers evidence-based insights and recommendations aimed at closing the literacy skills gap. It highlights the project's innovative approaches to assess reading skills, enhance text complexity evaluation, and develop an intelligent reading improvement system. The document shares findings from surveys conducted among trainers and trainees across Europe, exploring their reading needs, preferences, and the impact of literacy skills on employment and well-being. Moreover, it introduces a complexity framework and datasets that underpin the project's efforts to create tailored reading materials. The brief concludes with policy implications and actionable recommendations for stakeholders to foster reading skills development, thus contributing to the European Skills Agenda and broader social resilience and competitiveness.