Foundational Concepts & Principles Flashcards

Schellenberg's concept of 'evidential value' in records refers to:

Answer: The value of records as evidence of the organization and functions of the creating body

Evidential value is T.R. Schellenberg's term for the usefulness of records as evidence of an agency's origins, organization, and functions.

The principle of 'respect for original order' (Registraturprinzip) requires archivists to:

Answer: Maintain records in the order established by the creator

Original order must be maintained because the creator's filing system preserves contextual relationships between records.

What is a 'finding aid' in archival practice?

Answer: A tool that describes and provides access to archival holdings

A finding aid is any description that provides information about, and access to, archival materials in a repository.

In the context of records management, 'disposition' refers to:

Answer: The final action taken on records—either destruction or transfer to archival custody

Disposition encompasses the actions authorized by a records schedule: destruction, transfer to archives, or other final actions.

Which concept describes the unbroken, documented history of custody and control of records from creation to present?

Answer: Chain of custody

Chain of custody documents who has had control of records over time, helping establish their authenticity and integrity.

The 'records continuum' model, developed primarily by Australian archivist Frank Upward, differs from the life cycle model by:

Answer: Treating recordkeeping as a continuous, multi-dimensional process rather than linear stages

The records continuum model views records management as a continuous, integrated process across four dimensions rather than discrete sequential stages.

What does 'intrinsic value' mean in archival appraisal?

Answer: Qualities that make the original document itself worth preserving beyond its informational content

Intrinsic value refers to qualities inherent in the original document—such as signatures, seals, or physical characteristics—that make the original irreplaceable.