LAR4500

Computers in information transfer

J Anderson

6 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives At the completion of this subject students should have an appreciation of computer capabilities and applications in the archives and records management fields; an understanding of computer hardware (including input, output and storage devices); a knowledge of software types (including wordprocessing, spreadsheets, information retrieval and database management systems); an understanding of the systems development lifecycle; the ability to analyse an organisation's needs for an automated recordkeeping system and subsequently the ability to evaluate and select a system appropriate to the organisation's needs; and experience in database development and design.
Synopsis This subject is designed to give students an understanding of computers, and their role in information processing and transfer in archives and records management. The subject covers computer hardware, input, output and storage devices; the capabilities of the computer; software (including information retrieval and database management systems); data communications, systems development and information analysis; and the basics of programming. Evaluation of information management packages is also covered. Practical sessions involve the use of word processing, spreadsheet and database packages, CD-ROMs, the Internet, and records management software.

Assessment Test: 20%
* Computerisation report: 40%
* Group database assignment: 25%
* Information analysis exercise: 15%

Recommended texts

Szymanski, Szymanski and Pulschen Computers and information systems with hands-on software tutorials Prentice-Hall, 1995