Cataloguing in the Digital Age

In the Cataloguing in a Digital Age module we take a look at how archivists have embraced technology – from the early cataloguing systems through to online networks and the opportunities offered by Web 2.0 and the impact of technology on the evolution and impact of cataloguing standards including ISAD(G) and EAD. We will look at a range of options for publishing collections information online, consider indexing practices, the challenges and opportunities of born-digital archives, the impact of user needs and expectations and how social media can be used effectively to engage audiences. The module combines a strong practical element with reflection on current practices and introduces students to the issues being faced across the archive sector.

1. How have archivists embraced technology – in terms of software tools but also as an enabler
2. How the development of cataloguing standards have had an impact on the way in which archivists and archive services work
3. The impact of the world wide web as a platform for archive services to publish and share information about collections
4. How archivists can embrace social media to actively promote awareness and use of their collections
5. The challenge faced by archive services with collecting, managing and describing born-digital archives  

Number of credits

20 SCQF credits (10 ECTS credits) on Level 5, SHE M (SCQF 11)

Tutor

Simon Wilson, Christopher Cassells