ERIC Number: EJ1273427
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: 20
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2162-3104
EISSN: N/A
Cross-Cultural Digital Information-Seeking Experiences: The Case of Saudi Arabian Female International Students
Binsahl, Haifa; Chang, Shanton; Bosua, Rachelle
Journal of International Students, v10 n4 p872-891 2020
The number of Saudi female international students (SFISs) pursuing higher degrees in Western countries has increased dramatically. Many are faced with unusual challenges, especially acting without a male's permission, interacting with males, and using an open, free Internet. This article proposes that SFISs experience a "digital shift" whereby their cultural, educational, and digital backgrounds impact their information-seeking behavior in Australia. The study used a qualitative interpretivist methodology, interviewing a diverse group of SFISs studying in Australia, to better understand this impact on their everyday information needs and use of information sources. Findings indicate that SFISs' imperfect online search skills, exacerbated by English language deficiency, increase their challenges. Recommendations for supporting SFISs are offered for institutions and service providers.
Descriptors: Information Seeking, Arabs, Foreign Students, Females, Barriers, Gender Differences, Study Abroad, Cultural Differences, Internet, Student Attitudes, Information Needs, Information Sources, Language Proficiency, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Foreign Countries, College Students
Journal of International Students. 4005 Spurgeon Drive #6, Monroe, LA 71203. Tel: 318-600-5743; Fax: 318-342-3131; e-mail: jis@ojed.org; Web site: https://www.ojed.org/index.php/jis/index
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Saudi Arabia; Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A