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Abstract
This qualitative case study provides fresh understandings about first year undergraduate international students' library and information use at an Australian university, and their associated information literacy learning needs. The findings provide evidence to inform the development of library spaces and information literacy responses that enhance international students' transition and learning. The study was conducted in 2015 as part of a project that simultaneously investigated the same topic at three US universities.
This paper presents the case study context, reviews relevant literature and identifies gaps in research about international students' library use and information literacy, and outlines the qualitative methodology-questionnaire, interviews and thematic analysis. The findings reveal international students' lived experiences of using the library and information, in general and for assignments. After presenting the students' recommendations to the library, the paper discusses the wider implications of the findings for university libraries and information literacy innovation.
Keywords: international students; academic libraries; university libraries; library environment; information literacy; informed learning
Introduction
Transitioning to university is an educationally and socially complex experience for many undergraduate students (Maunder, Cunliffe, Galvin, Mjali, & Rogers, 2013). This complexity is often intensified for international students by a simultaneous shifting between countries, cultural contexts, and academic environments. Although well recognised, this experience presents continuing challenges for international students and those who seek to support them, including the library.
This case study presents a detailed snapshot of first year international students' library and information use as they transitioned to undergraduate study at an Australian university in 2015. The findings enhance understanding of this experience and provide student-generated recommendations. Thus, they have educational and strategic significance for university libraries to inform the development of spaces and programs that enhance international students' transition.
This paper is in six parts that: set the case study context; review relevant literature; outline the qualitative case study methodology; present findings about international students' experiences of using the library and information; offer students' recommendations to the library; and discuss wider implications for university libraries and information literacy.
Case study context
Internationalised higher education
The internationalisation of higher education continues to increase and contribute to national economies (ICEF, 2015). In Australia, international education accounts for over $19 billion annual export income, with a projected 45% rise in enrolments by 2025...