To convey knowledge of recordkeeping theory and principles as developed over time, within records management, archival, heritage and curatorial environments, throughout records’ active and inactive life and to provide an understanding of the role of recordkeeping within society by:

Developing a critical awareness of current recordkeeping theories and principles and their relevance to practice;

An appreciation of the effect of different organisational missions and functions on the implementation of theory;

Articulating the importance of records and archives in their contribution to society;

Developing an awareness of issues, both intellectual and physical, associated with the exploitation of archival material in a curatorial context.

(LO1) Evaluate different definitions of records and archives (both from within the recordkeeping discipline and beyond) and place these within a wider intellectual context.

(LO2) Describe the role of the recordkeeper in terms of skills, professional contexts and societal functions.

(LO3) Demonstrate understanding of the value and use of records and archives within a heritage and/or curatorial environment.

(LO4) Understand and communicate record-keeping principles (e.g. provenance, original order, life-cycle, continuum).

(LO5) Assess different approaches to appraisal, acquisition and arrangement.

(LO6) Evaluate different uses of archives in a heritage context, including in artworks, exhibitions and websites.

(LO7) Contribute to the solution of ethical problems associated with recordkeeping and evaluate current ethical codes.

(LO8) Interrogate the relationship between theory and practice in recordkeeping.

(S1) Information skills - record-keeping.

(S2) Improving own learning/performance - reflective practice.

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - influencing skills - argumentation.

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - academic writing (inc referencing skills).

(S5) Critical thinking and problem solving - critical analysis.

(S6) Information skills - critical reading.

(S7) Information skills - information accessing.

The syllabus will be confirmed on Canvas and in the module handbook.

The majority of teaching will be delivered face-to-face on campus. Online delivery will be used to complement the on-campus delivery and where technology affords a better learning experience.

Lectures, interactive teaching and seminars.