Dismantling Deficit Thinking in Library Instruction for International Students

Deficit thinking, or a “blame the victim” mentality for academic failure, continues to plague higher education since it often requires specific training to recognize. International students are particularly vulnerable victims of instructors exhibiting a deficit viewpoint. Instruction librarians can break out of the deficit mindset by acknowledging the actual issues that impact international students, critically examining their own teaching background and identity, demonstrating cultural humility, employing culturally responsive teaching methods, and intentionally designing classroom experiences that will equip international students with the tools they need to succeed.