Project: Filling in the gaps: International Students and Library Research Skills
Principal Investigator: Crystal Yin, Electronic Resources and Systems Librarian, Liaison Librarian for the School of Health, Community & Social Justice
Research Team: Suyu Dong (Co-Investigator), Liaison Librarian for the School of Public Safety; Brianna Henshaw (Co-Investigator), Liaison Librarian for the School of Criminal Justice & Security; Jiaqi Pei, Student Research Assistant.
Project Dates: May 15, 2025 - May 15, 2026
Project Funding: $7,000
Project Summary: International students represent a growing proportion of JIBC enrolment, increasing from 89 to 473 full-time students over the past five years. Despite this growth, little research exists on the library research skill competencies of this population. This project addresses two questions: what are the challenges of supporting international students in developing library research skills, and what knowledge gaps hinder the development of these skills among international students at JIBC? Our research team conducted a literature review, administered anonymous online surveys, and held one-on-one interviews with international students. These findings will enable the JIBC Library to collaborate with faculty to develop targeted resources and instruction that improve international students' academic success and career readiness.
Outcomes and Benefits: This project aimed to: (1) explore the challenges of supporting international students in developing library research skills through a literature review; (2) identify knowledge gaps hindering effective library research skill development among international students at JIBC through surveys and interviews; and (3) gather information on challenges instructors face when teaching international students library research skills through qualitative interviews (anticipated in a future phase). Benefits will flow to international students at JIBC, who will gain access to improved library instruction and resources tailored to their needs. The JIBC Library and academic librarians across British Columbia will also benefit from evidence-based insights into how to better serve international student populations.
Funding and Support: SSHRC Institutional Grant (SIG) Explore Stream
Project Status: Active
Deliverables: TBA
