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 use of classification systems and archive plans
• 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 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 archives and records management
• the importance of securing trustworthiness in records over time

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.