U.S. students lagging in digital skills

Between 2018 and 2023, U.S. 8th graders’ digital literacy skills significantly declined, according to the International Computer and Information Literacy Study. The average score for U.S. students in computer and information literacy dropped by 37 points to 482, while computational thinking scores also fell by 37 points to 461. The international averages were 476 and 483, respectively. NCES Commissioner Peggy G. Carr stated: “The results highlight the need for further inquiry and concentrated efforts to address the computer and informational literacy skills of our students.” The report emphasizes that building digital literacy requires explicit teaching rather than passive exposure to technology. Despite the growing importance of these skills, there is currently no national mandate for teaching media literacy in U.S. schools, although more states are beginning to adopt relevant standards. Experts stress the necessity of a clear national mandate to improve these essential skills.