The Deepest Learners: What PISA Can Reveal About the Learning that Matters

Based on data released December 3, 2013, from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), this Alliance for Excellent Education report reveals that the United States struggles to produce top performers in reading, math, and science at the rates of its international peers. These students, who the report calls the “deepest learners,” demonstrate the deep understanding of content and the ability to apply knowledge to solve problems, think critically, and communicate effectively. By combining existing research with the latest PISA data, The Deepest Learners offers four recommendations based on practices in high-performing countries that can inform policymakers as states move forward to implement college- and career-ready standards.