2016 Annual Conference

The PIAAC National Supplement sampled an increased number of unemployed adults, young adults (ages 16 – 34), and added older adults (ages 66 – 74). This presentation will compare numeracy, literacy, and problem solving skills for the unemployed by age group and self-rated health.

The target audience for this presentation includes those interested in PIAAC data and those interested in better understanding the skills of the unemployed, such as how skills vary by age group, and the relationship between skills and health status. Many adult students, including unemployed adults, return to the classroom to upgrade their skills; gaining a better understanding of skill deficiencies could help educators design more effective educational programs. Conference participants involved in Adult and Continuing Education and Workforce Development could especially benefit from attendance.

The PIAAC National Supplement was released in mid-2016. New data allows a more focused analysis of skills of the unemployed in the U.S. While unemployment rates have declined substantially from their peaks following the Great Recession, unemployment durations, especially for older age groups, remain above pre-recession levels. Some who experience extended periods of unemployment withdraw from the labor force, increasing their risk of poverty. This is one reason for declines in labor force participation rates for some age groups, including those ages 45 to 54. This session will describe potential implications of long-term unemployment and early withdrawal from the labor market.
For all age groups, the unemployed have lower average literacy, numeracy, and problem solving skills as compared to the employed. Identification of strategies through Workforce Development and Adult and Continuing Education programs to improve these skills could improve employment outcomes and reduce the risk of economic insecurity.