A series of online learning courses from the Australian Society of Archivists. Inspired by the Society's flagship textbook Keeping Archives, these courses are designed to provide a solid grounding in archives and recordkeeping knowledge.

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • explain the concepts of archives, records and recordkeeping
  • explain the role of records and archives in society
  • list the common elements of recordkeeping and archives programs, and
  • describe the work of recordkeeping professionals today.

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • Explain what appraisal is
  • Describe the importance of understanding context
  • Describe methods for analysing functions, activities and work processes
  • Identify requirements for records
  • Describe the distinction between ‘records’ and ‘archives’
  • Explain the uses for the results of appraisal
  • Define disposal and name the main elements of this activity

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • Describe the principles of provenance and original order as they relate to arrangement and description
  • Explain what archival description is
  • Name some of the most significant traditions in archival description
  • List the main elements of the Australian ‘Series’ System
  • Explain the distinction between custody and control 
  • Describe some tools for archival description
  • List some of the main issues and discussions arising in archival description today
  • Describe some of ways descriptive information can be used

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • List desirable qualities for buildings for keeping archives
  • Describe the main elements of a preservation program
  • Describe considerations and resources for shelving, boxes and housing of records
  • List some of the considerations when dealing with special media formats
  • Explain the role of the conservator
  • Describe the steps in planning for disasters

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • Explain the range of rules and requirements for access to records
  • Describe some of the tools for managing access such as finding aids and enabling better use of archival metadata
  • List the key elements of digitisation programs
  • Describe the main considerations in providing a reference service
  • List some recent innovations in access to records and archives
  • Explain the roles of advocacy and outreach in the context of records and archives work

By the end of this course you will be able to:

  • Describe the changing nature of recordkeeping
  • Explain the key considerations in the design and implementation of systems for records
  • Explain the key considerations in migrating digital records
  • List the main activities and key concepts in digital preservation
  • List the elements of a digital archives program