Statistical literacy: Seven simple questions for policymakers

Abstract

Information literacy, data literacy and statistical literacy overlap when they deal with data as evidence in arguments. All three require analysis and evaluation. To effectively evaluate data as evidence, policymakers need to untangle social statistics from arithmetic numbers. Social statistics are numbers in context – where the context matters. Social statistics are socially constructed – just like words. They are generated, selected and presented by people with motives, values and goals. Social statistics can be influenced. Policymakers need to evaluate quantitative evidence using the same skills they use in evaluating other evidence. Ask questions! This article presents seven simple questions that apply to all social statistics.