Course content

This course addresses questions on how we develop, preserve and organize knowledge about archives and collections. The role of records management, today and in historical perspective, is mapped and discussed. Rules and regulations that govern the field, as well as routines and processes, are dealt with, focusing especially on the systems used to manage records and collections. This includes records management and registry entry systems, classification schemes or systems, archive plans, and subject-specific systems.

These systems are used to record knowledge about archives and collections, their context, content and various physical characteristics and properties. They are used in a variety of contexts and designed in a variety of ways, and are based on various principles according to purpose or function, and where they belong in the archives and collections landscape and lifecycle.

The course also introduces the student to databases, how computers work in an archival capacity, and the use of IT as a basis for understanding the systems used in the management of records and collections.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student has knowledge about

• the role and function of records management, also in a historical perspective.
• subject-specific systems for records management, archives and museum collections.
• the uses of classification systems and archive plans.
• databases.
• how databases are built.
• basic computer functionality.

Skills

The student is able to explain

• the main features of the systems used in archives and museum collections
• how catalog and registration systems are used (including searching stored data, and utilizing a records management system)
• the basic functions of an operating system and the roles of these functions
• how to create 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 records management, archives, and collections management.
• the relationship of subject-specific systems to records management systems and systems used for managing collections.

Learning methods and activities

A combination of lectures, seminars, group work and exercises.

Compulsory assignments

• ICT exercises
• One written task

Specific conditions

Course materials

The course reading list will be published on Blackboard at the beginning of term. Minor changes to the list may occur during term.