Program Overview

Access and Use of Archives and Records (INST0008)

Key Information

The module is part of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, specifically the Information Studies teaching department. It carries a credit value of 15. This module is core and only available to students on the MA/PG Dip Archives and Records Management.

Alternative Credit Options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

This module provides students with the knowledge and understanding necessary to provide appropriate and meaningful access to physical, digitised, and born-digital records and archives. The course reviews the changing concept of 'access' to records and archives within the context of UK government policies and international developments, technological developments, cross-sectorial collaboration, and community-based archive initiatives. It covers topics such as compliance with access to information and privacy legislations; diversity imperatives and the recognition of physical and social barriers to access archives and records; the development and provision of outreach programmes, exhibitions, publications, websites, and social media initiatives; user services (online and onsite) including supporting learning and the identification of user needs.

By the end of this module, students should:

• Be aware of the legal frameworks, socio-political contexts, and professional standards underpinning access strategies.
• Be able to design and deliver appropriate access to records in a given situation using a range of tools.
• Be able to identify and work towards the removal of barriers hindering access.
• Be able to deal positively and effectively with users.

Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year

The intended teaching term for this module is Term 1, and it is classified as a Postgraduate (FHEQ Level 7) module.

Teaching and Assessment

The mode of study for this module is in person. The methods of assessment include:

• 40% Coursework
• 60% Group activity The mark scheme uses numeric marks.

Other Information

In the previous year, 34 students were enrolled in this module. The module leader is Dr. Hannah Smyth.