Archives and Information Science MA, Archival and Information Science Research and Theory, 15 credits

Aim

The course aims to provide knowledge about archival research from a national and international perspective, and archival theory and its applicability with a focus on current theory development. It departs from digital records and archives management.

Course objectives

After completing the course students will be able to:
- Independently describe, analyze and critically evaluate current national and international Archives and Information Science research
- Independently discuss and analyze the driving forces and impact of the research
- Identify, compare and critically examine problem formulations in various types of research projects
- Independently account for and discuss the archival theories’ and the central concepts’ development over time.
- Analyze and compare different theoretical orientations
- Discuss the concrete application of archival theory in organizations and the practical consequences for the development of information systems.
- Describe the different methodological limitations in archival research

Content

- The emergence of archives and information science research
- International and national development and research projects
- Trends in Archives and Information Science research
- The history of ideas of Archives and Information Science
- Life Cycle Model vs. Records Continuum model
- Appraisal Theory
- The concept of Record och Authenticity

Entry requirements

Bachelor's degree (180 credits)

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Instruction consists of lectures, seminars and workshops. About 20% consists of teacher-led instruction. The remainder consists of self-study. Part of the teaching is conducted via the Internet and the course therefore requires access to a computer and an internet connection.

Examination form

I200: Written report, 11.5 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

S200: Seminar, written report, 1.5 Credits
Grade scale: Fail (U) or Pass (G)

S201: Seminar, written report and oral presentation, 2 Credits
Grade scale: Fail (U) or Pass (G)

Grading criteria for the subject can be found at www.miun.se/gradingcriteria.

The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University’s disabilities adviser.

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.