LAR2003

Information processing

F Upward and J Anderson

8 points
* 4 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: LAR1001 and LAR1002

Objectives Upon completion of the subject students should have a conceptual framework within which to analyse information (the information continuum model), know the processes for the capture of communicated information and for the operation, transmission and exploitation of recorded information; understand the principles behind the processing of information for optimal representation, retrieval and dissemination; and be able to undertake processes involved in these areas.

Synopsis Principles and practices are placed in both a systems and a service context, building upon knowledge and skills developed in the first-year core subjects within the Bachelor of Information Management. Topics covered include the following: the information continuum model; choice of media for information storage, with particular emphasis on electronic information and its organisation requirements for particular information types; methodologies for description of particular information types; the theory and application of classification and indexing systems; methods for identifying users and structuring access to take account of these needs in conjunction with privacy issues, freedom of information provisions and the need for shared information; methods for identifying material of continuing value and mechanisms for controlling disposition; and the capture of communicated transactions and the acquisition of information.

Assessment Project work: 60%
* Examination (2 hours): 40%

Recommended texts

Harvey R Preservation in Australian and New Zealand libraries 2nd edn, Centre for Information Studies, 1993
Rowley J E Organizing knowledge: An introduction to information retrieval 2nd edn, Gower, 1993