The digital information ecology of international students: Understanding the complexity of communication

In this chapter, we posit that there is a need for researchers and practitioners to consider the complex digital environment that international students inhabit. Here we use the lens of the information systems discipline to point to ways forward in our understanding of international students’ digital information behaviours. We adapt the ecology model presented in information systems; this model maps the various connections people make in an increasingly dense, complex, and vital digital information environment. We use this model to understand the information seeking and use behaviours of international students, how they conceptualize their information needs, where they do (and do not) get information, and how they process and absorb information. More importantly, we address the gaps and failings of the current approach to information provision for international students. We further point to opportunities for better supporting international students while their ecologies are fragile.