While reading, writing, maths doesn't change, their need in an ever changing world does change.

As an example, people lament the inability of younger generations to read cursive. But in a world where almost everything was printed by (or viewed on) a computer, the ability to read cursive just isn't that important.

I think currently basic facts are still important. But if the world doesn't reenforce this (by requiring them to actually use them), then the knowledge won't stay long term.

Perhaps the lagging skills of younger generations represent a world that no longer asks for them. But the younger generations are sure to have better skills in other ways, ways that this new world demands of them.