Program Overview

Archive Services, Access and Preservation Module

The Archive Services, Access and Preservation module (RM50001) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in archive services, access, and preservation. This module deals with an archivist's two main responsibilities: to the users of records and to the archives themselves.

Module Overview

In this module, students will examine issues surrounding access to and use of archives, considering how archivists can facilitate and increase this use. The module will also cover the physical defense of collections, including immediate and potential threats to the preservation of archives, as well as practical ways to mitigate these threats. Additionally, students will learn about resource management, including how to manage time, staff, and other resources effectively.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

• Have an awareness of the issues, barriers, and principles involved in providing access to archives
• Implement and administer a range of services to facilitate access to collections by on-site and remote users
• Have a thorough knowledge of different methods of attracting, informing, and educating a range of users
• Understand the technical and practical skills and knowledge necessary to ensure the preservation of archival collections
• Have an awareness of the issues involved in time and resource management

Module Details

• Credits: 20
• Module code: RM50001
• Level: 5
• School: School of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Law
• Discipline: Humanities

What Will You Learn

In this module, you will:

• Gain an appreciation of the principles underlying access to archives
• Develop the ability to balance user demand against intellectual and practical constraints on unlimited access
• Obtain a thorough knowledge of on-site and remote services available to users of archives
• Develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to attract and inform users
• Understand the necessary technical knowledge required to implement best practice for the preservation and conservation of archival collections
• Be introduced to the skills necessary to effectively manage resources and staff

Assignments and Assessment

The module assessment consists of:

• Essay (30%)
• Report (30%)
• Assessed tasks (30%)
• Discussion board participation (10%) There is no final exam for this module.

Teaching Methods

The module is delivered through independent study (100%).