Information literacy skills: Investigating differences between native and non-native English-speaking students

Abstract

The difference in information literacy skills between native and non-native English-speaking students was explored using a modified version of the Beile Test of Information Literacy for Education (B-TILED). The multiple linear regression analysis method was applied, and, after controlling for demographic variables, this study found that the mean score of native English-speaking students was 0.136 (p < 0.001) higher in search strategy, 0.093 (p < 0.05) higher in knowledge of electronic resources, and 0.181 (p < 0.01) higher in ethical consideration and copyright than that of non-native English-speaking students. There was no significant difference in knowledge of academic databases and citations between these two groups. This study intends to contribute partial empirical evidence on the role of libraries in the higher education of non-native English-speaking students for information literacy practice.