A comparative study and analysis of the library skills of American and foreign students at the University of Michigan

The question has been raised often in the literature whether a single bibliographic instruction program is appropriate for foreign and American students, and whether such a program can account for a statistically significant improvement in foreign students' knowledge about the library, in their skills in using the library and in inculcating more positive attitudes about libraries and librarians. While some librarians advocate a specific program of library instruction for foreign students, others insist that foreign students are no different from American students because the large and complex library systems in most United States universities present a challenge even to American student users.;The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences in perceptions, experiences, expectations and knowledge of U.S. academic libraries by foreign and American students, and to determine if these differences are significant enough to warrant separate library orientation programs.;The study was conducted at the University of Michigan. Data was collected by means of a questionnaire. A total of 1750 questionnaires was mailed out in the spring quarter of the 1990/91 academic year. Seven hundred and fifty to American students and 1000 to foreign students. Follow up calls were made six days later. A total of 839 questionnaires was returned.;Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize all major variables. Inferential statistics were applied to ascertain differences and relationships among variables and groups. The t-test and chi-square test were employed to test group mean differences for significance.;Results revealed that American students have greater knowledge of library resources than foreign students, performed better on the skill test, were first exposed to bibliographic instruction at the elementary school as opposed to the university for foreign students, and unlike foreign students are fluent in the English language. Both groups of students were confident in their ability to find books and journals in the library and in using library computers. Both groups were basically pleased and highly positive of the University of Michigan library and of librarians.;The findings led to the conclusion that separate library instruction programs are needed to overcome the problems foreign students face in U.S. academic libraries.