Basic Competences
Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Competence (ICT)
The basic competences are the set of fundamental capabilities that allow people understand, interpret and act in daily life, participate in society and access to learning and employment. Traditionally, they are articulated around three major contexts: literacy (literate competence) numeracy (basic mathematics competence) and digital competence or ICT (functional use of Information and Communication Technologies).
These competences constitute the basis of lifelong learning, since they make possible complex knowledge adquisition and the development of other personal, social and professional competences.
Literacy: competencia lectoescritora
The literacy makes reference to the capability of reading, understanding, interpreting and producing texts in different formats and contexts. It does not limit to mechanic reading and writing, but it also includes the critic comprehension of information, the capability to express ideas in a clear and strucutured way and the functional use of language in daily life.
This competence is essential for:
Understand instructions, documents and informative contents.
Communicate ideas, opinions and arguments in an effective way.
Participate actively in educational, laboral and social contexts.
Access to knowledge and continue learning.
Numeracy: basic mathematics competence
The numeracy refers to the capability of using basic mathematics reasoning in daily situations. It includes comprehension and the use of numbers, measures, rations, graphics and data, as well as the resolution of simple problems related with daily life and work.
This competence allows:
Interpret numeric information and basic data.
Carry out functional calculations related with time, money or quantities.
Understand graphics, tables and percentages.
Make informed decisions based on data.
Basic digital competence (ICT)
Basic digital competence (ICT), also named ICT (Information and Communication Technologies), makes reference to the functional and safe use of digital tools and technologies. It includes the capability of handling devices, access to digital services, communicate in virtual environments and manage basic information in digital format.
This competence is key for:
Access to digital services and resources.
Communicate and participate in digital environments.
Use aplications and basic tools for work and learning.
Protect personal information and act responsibly online.
Importance of basic competences
Basic competences are essential for:
Social and digital inclusion.
Access to employment and training.
Personal autonomy in daily life.
The active and responsible participation in society.
The lack of these competencies limit learning, employment and social participation opportunities, so their development is a priority in educational and social policies at an international level.
A basis for lifelong learning
The basic competences do not constitute an arrival point, but a starting point. Their strengthening allow people continue learning, adapting to technological and social changes and developing other complex competences throughout life.
In set, literacy, numeracy and digital competence (ICT) form a central core of capabilities that support personal, social and professional development, and that they result essential for performing well with autonomy and responsibility in current society.
