ICILS 2023: an international perspective on digital literacy

The ICILS (International computer and information literacy study) 2023 publication from the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) offers important insights for teachers and school leaders, particularly around digital literacy, teaching with technology and equity in student outcomes. 

Key findings for computer and information literacy (CIL) and computational thinking (CT) include: 

• Nearly half of students scored below baseline proficiency level for CIL  
• CT performance was generally stronger, but large gaps exist between high- and low-performing students 
• Girls outperformed boys in CIL, but gender differences in CT were minimal 
• Students with higher ICT confidence and more digital experience tended to perform better in both CIL and CT 

The ICILS report data underline the importance of embedding digital literacy and computational thinking into the curriculum, supporting teachers’ professional development with technology, ensuring equitable access to digital tools for all students and reflecting on how students’ everyday tech habits affect their learning. 

Read the full report here: An International Perspective on Digital Literacy: Results from ICILS 2023