What does the application of numeracy skills mean?
People who can apply numeracy skills effectively are able to
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estimate confidently
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perform mental arithmetic accurately
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use, understand and present statistical data
The ability to handle numbers, including the basic skills of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and percentages, are necessary for many roles in the workplace. In addition to these basic skills, recruiters may look for the ability to gather and compile statistical data in various formats and to analyse, interpret and present data in a clear way. The majority of recruiters will assess numerical ability via aptitude tests and for certain graduate schemes it is common practice to complete a numeracy test; these may happen online or during an assessment centre. Some recruiters test twice to ensure that a candidate's responses are an accurate indication of their abilities.
Application of numeracy skills 'behaviours'
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Reading and evaluating quantitative and qualitative data output
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Understanding the difference between correlation and causality
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Thinking laterally and logically, enabling responses to questions such as 'How many petrol stations are there in the UK?'
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Considering all possible methods to calculate reasonable estimates
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Using appropriate software packages to collect, analyse and present data
Application of numeracy skills development: examples and evidence
Numeracy skills examples and evidence
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Academic related
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Undertaking quantitative surveys and compiling the results in Excel documents, charts and graphs
Analysing data to spot trends and anomalies
Presenting your data in written reports or verbal presentations
Making use of numerical data sets and if necessary manipulating them for your own purposes
Developing methodological skills in LSE100, where you will have the opportunity to evaluable and interpret evidence of different types, including qualitative sources as well as statistical data
Visiting the Learning World Moodle site, whose resources include
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Preparing for employers' numerical tests
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Mathematical handouts for LSE topics
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Presenting data in reports
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Extra-curricular
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Taking a position within a student society or club that involves dealing with a budget and allocating resources
Generate at LSE Careers events programme
LSE Careers Case Study Skills Workshops
Running or participating in a Young Enterprise-type scheme
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Work experience/volunteering
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Taking up opportunities to research or handle numerical data during internships or work placements
Handling money and doing basic arithmetic while working in cafes, restaurants and other retail environments
Managing your own 'business' if you are undertaking freelance work
Starting a business or social enterprise
Offering to help with finances, fundraising and/or budgeting tasks if you're volunteering
Applying for funding for volunteering/enterprise projects via LSE Careers
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Other
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Living within a student budget and planning a realistic timetable to pay back your student loan
Practising online tests viaLSE CareerHub
Accessing the psychometric resources section on the LSE website
AttendingLSE Careers skills workshops such as Demystifying online tests
Practising your numerical skills such as fractions, ratios and percentages with and without a calculator
Practise extracting information from tables and graphs, for example in financial newspapers
Using external resources such as the BBC's Skillswise to brush up on your maths skills
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