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This overarching module, running across terms one and two, provides a theoretical frame for the other more applied modules in the programme. It focuses on exploring key theories, frameworks and concepts that underpin the management of archives and records in a digital age. The module begins with the central premise that recordkeeping concepts and values are never neutral, and instead are built from particular standpoints that must be opened up for critical examination. It builds on this central understanding to both interrogate and begin to move beyond dominant euro-centric framings of recordkeeping theory and practice. Students will be introduced to the temporal, political, social and cultural contexts in which recordkeeping concepts and values first emerge and subsequently evolve. This includes exploration of recordkeeping theories and concepts that have been traditionally excluded, or have been received at the margins of the dominant professional western canon. The module also seeks to explore the political, social, economic and legal contexts in which archives and record managers operate, it looks at emerging challenges around data and the digital, and gives consideration to themes such as environmental justice, trauma informed approaches to recordkeeping, community and participatory archiving and ethics. Embedded throughout the module is the examination of how power, oppression, privilege and affect circulate in and through recordkeeping work. The module also looks at a variety of theoretical lenses that are used within recordkeeping discourse to frame and carry out anti-oppressive recordkeeping work.

This module will be delivered across both term 1 and term 2 through a combination of lectures (60 - 90 minutes per week), and class exercise, small group seminar teaching (2 hours every fortnight), individual and group directed study. Module readings, course materials, and other resources will be available through Moodle.

At end of the module students will:

• Have a clear understanding of the diverse conceptual and theoretical positions which underpin international contemporary archives and records management practice
• Be able to use these understandings to develop their own personal conceptual framework in which to frame and inform their professional career
• Understand the broad political, social, economic and legal factors which affect the practice of archives and records management
• Have an awareness of the challenges and opportunities faced by archivists and records managers in an increasingly globalised and digital world