course-details-portlet

LBAS1002

Introduction to Records Management and ICT

Choose study year

Credits 15

Level Foundation courses, level I

Course start Autumn 2026

Duration 1 semester

Language of instruction Norwegian

Location Trondheim

About the course

Course content

This course addresses questions on how we develop, manage and organize knowledge about archives and records. The course provides an introduction to the development and importance of records management from a societal and organizational perspective with an emphasis on archives in the public sector. Some historical lines are drawn, but the focus is primarily on the present and the future. The student is introduced to relevant legislation and regulations, concepts, processes, and routines for records management, with an emphasis on important main principles, standards, and core functions.

The course also provides an introduction to databases, the way computers work and the use of IT as a basis for understanding the various computer systems that can be encountered within the field of records management.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student has knowledge about

the role and function of records management, also in a historical perspective
relevant legislation and regulations
important concepts within the field of records management
the role of records management in maintaining freedom of information and a sustainable democracy
the importance of metadata and essential qualities for records
the design and use of archive plans and classification systems
databases and how databases are constructed
basic computer functionality

Skills

The student is able to explain

the main features of the systems used in records management
the relationship of subject-specific systems to records management systems
the basic functions of an operating system and the roles of these functions
how to design a normalized relational database, and referential integrity with a given database management system
how to do SQL queries in a chosen database management tool or system

General competence

The student has a general understanding of

public administration and its relationship to archives and records management
the importance of securing trustworthiness in records over time
how to express themself academically, both orally and in writing

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, exercises, seminars and group work.

Compulsory activities/assignments

1 individual academic assignment or group assignment. This can be written or oral. The assignment is given after the start of the semester.
3 IT exercises

Compulsory assignments

ICT exercises
Assessment or group assessment

Further on evaluation

Compulsory activities/assignments

Compulsory activities/assignments are assessed as approved/not approved, and must be approved in order for the student to take the exam.

Compulsory assignments must be approved in the term the course is taught. Compulsory assignments are valid for two years.

Compulsory activities and exams must be answered in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language.

The student must answer assignments and exams independently. Answers that do not demonstrate independence, regardless of whether there is a unclear understanding of academic sources, missing references to sources, or uncritical use of AI, will receive a mark deduction, depending on the extent. Students are allowed to use AI in preparation for assignments, but must familiarize themselves with how they can use this tool critically and independently, so that it contributes to learning in the subject.

You can read more about academic source use and assignment writing here: https://i.ntnu.no/oppgaveskriving
You can read more about the use of AI as a tool in assignment writing here: https://i.ntnu.no/wiki/-/wiki/English/Artificial+intelligence+in+student+papers

Examination

Home examination, duration 6 hours.

School examination, duration 3 hours.

Course materials

The course reading list and course plan will be published on NTNU's digital learning platform (Canvas) at the beginning of term. Minor changes to the list may occur during term. Students are obliged to keep informed and up-to-date on all information from teachers via the learning platform and NTNU e-mails.

Special needs accommodation

Students with disabilities and students with special needs can apply for individual adaptation of their studies and exams (Act relating to universities and university colleges § 10-5). Please contact the programme’s Student Adviser (e-mail: studier@ilu.ntnu.no).