TEACHING DATA LITERACY: PERSPECTIVES, APPROACHES AND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICES

In today’s data-driven society, all citizens should acquire the skills to critically understand and use data to engage actively within their communities. The foundation for a data-literate society can be laid in schools, but there is still no consensus on the core competencies that define data literacy. Definitions of data literacy span from practical, instrumental skills that enhance professional capabilities, to criticalreflexive dimensions that emphasize citizens’ role in navigating the growing datafication of society. Data literacy is best understood as the ability to read, interpret, produce and critically engage with data while investigating the world. It intersects with various forms of literacy, such as digital, information and media literacy and necessitates engagement with digital platforms. The critical engagement with data further aligns with statistical and evaluative competencies, particularly in seeing data as evidence. Moreover, fostering data literacy requires an interdisciplinary approach, integrating data skills with subjects such as mathematics, science, arts and social studies. This contribution offers an overview of key dimensions of data literacy - basic, visual, ethical-critical and generative-creative - accompanied by practical applications and resources. By exploring these areas, educators and practitioners can cultivate a deeper, multidimensional understanding of data literacy to empower future citizens.