The Global Data Literacy Standards (DLS)
The Data Literacy Standards (DLS) translate the moral and conceptual architecture of the Living Spiral into observable, teachable, and assessable outcomes. From Navigator (DLL 1–3) to Change Agent (DLL 13–16), each standard expresses a measurable learning outcome at the intersection of ethics and evidence.
The Global Data Literacy Standards (DLS)
The Data Literacy Standards (DLS) translate the moral and conceptual architecture of the Living Spiral into observable, teachable, and assessable outcomes. Where the previous parts described why and how the spiral functions, this part presents what learners demonstrate as they move through its five developmental phases—from Navigator (DLL 1–3) to Change Agent (DLL 13–16).
Each Data Literacy Level (DLL) expresses a single, measurable learning outcome situated at the intersection of the Ethos Arc (truth, empathy, justice) and the Telos Arc (application, leadership, service). Every standard includes:
| Field | Definition |
|---|---|
| DLL Code | The unique identifier for the standard (e.g., DLL 1.1 F Recognize Chart Parts). |
| Strand | One of the five domains of practice — Foundations (F), Reading & Interpreting (R), Creating & Communicating (C), Critical & Ethical (CR), Leadership & Application (L). |
| DOK Level | Cognitive depth aligned with Webb's Depth of Knowledge taxonomy. |
| Observable Evidence | The behaviors, products, or responses through which mastery can be observed. |
| Empathy Indicator | The affective dimension demonstrated within the task — Awareness, Perspective-Taking, Ethical Concern, or Compassionate Action. |
| Global Link | Correspondence to parallel expectations in international frameworks (CCSS, NGSS, ISTE, UNESCO, OECD). |
These standards are not prescriptive lesson plans but ethical coordinates for instruction and assessment. They provide a universal language through which teachers, ministries, and researchers can align curriculum, evaluate growth, and cultivate leadership that is both analytical and empathetic.
DLL Bands
Explore the Data Literacy Level Bands of the Data Literacy Standards
Each band represents a meaningful leap in ethical data literacy.
NAV
Navigator
DLL 1-3 · Learners build trust with data and honest storytelling.
EXP
Explorer
DLL 4-6 · Hands-on creators testing fairness and representation.
INV
Investigator
DLL 7-9 · Skeptical analysts comparing claims and evidence.
ADV
Advocate
DLL 10-12 · Public storytellers balancing truth, ethics, and persuasion.
CHA
Change Agent
DLL 13-16 · Systems leaders who steward data for civic good.