Abstract

Introduction

One of Eurostat’s communication and dissemination objectives is to increase statistical literacy amongst all groups of data users and help them turn data into knowledge. Statistical literacy products and initiatives are critical for non-expert users of statistics, such as young people, students, teachers, and citizens who might feel apprehensive about statistics or have limited access to statistical information.
Targeting non-specialist audiences poses multiple challenges:
• in terms of developing statistical literacy materials and tools that can help non-expert users better understand data and use them, for example in their studies, work, and daily life;
• in terms of informing and promoting the available resources and initiatives;
• it is essential to engage and interact with these users to gain a better understanding of their needs and make sure that tools and materials are targeted to their needs.

Tools and resources for non-expert users

The presentation gives an insight into a selection of resources and activities developed by Eurostat for non-advanced users of statistics. These include explanatory products to help understand statistical concepts, products presenting data analysis through storytelling, and tools giving quick interactive access to data. Cooperation with the national statistical offices (NSIs) is a key element in this respect, it offers a platform to exchange practices, share experiences and mutually promote existing products and activities. As part of this cooperation, Eurostat and the NSIs have established an informal group on statistical literacy which meets twice a year, where participants present and discuss their recent projects.

Promoting statistical literacy products and activities

The presentation also focuses on recent initiatives to promote statistical literacy materials. Finding new ways and channels to reach non-expert users is key to raising awareness about the resources already available to them. In 2024, Eurostat launched a statistical literacy newsletter, with news about the latest statistical literacy products, events, and statistical competitions, organised by Eurostat or/and the national statistical offices. Compared to other dissemination channels, the newsletter aims to target users who are interested in learning more about statistics in an easy to understand way.

Engaging with and better understanding user’s needs

Eurostat will also share its experience in gathering users’ feedback, in particular from the educational community. Teachers represent a key target group and multiplier for enhancing statistical literacy among young people. In the last few years, Eurostat has regularly presented selected materials to a European teachers’ panel organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Communication. The teachers in the panel act both as multipliers of Eurostat’s materials for teachers and students in the different countries, and as users giving input and feedback on new or existing products. This example of dialogue with users adds up to Eurostat’s regular usability testing of its website and selected products to improve the overall user experience.