Abstract
Low literacy and numeracy skills among Indonesian elementary students pose a significant
educational challenge, hindering cognitive development and practical abilities. This study aims
to identify the key factors contributing to low literacy and numeracy and propose effective
improvement strategies. A qualitative literature review, incorporating relevant scientific
articles, books, and reports, was conducted to synthesize internal and external factors
influencing student competencies. Findings indicate that low motivation, ineffective teaching
methods, limited learning resources, and insufficient family support are primary barriers. The
study highlights the importance of innovative, interactive, and contextually relevant teaching
strategies that are grounded in constructivist and social learning theories. Recommended
interventions include integrating interactive learning media, teacher training, parental
involvement, and experiential learning practices. These approaches seek to enhance student
engagement, critical thinking, and conceptual understanding. This study contributes by
providing a comprehensive synthesis of causative factors and evidence-based strategies for
improving learning outcomes. Future research should investigate the practical application and
effectiveness of these strategies in diverse Indonesian classroom settings.
