This module explores the concept of information and its relation to data and knowledge, taking an historical perspective through examining the past, present and future of associated institutional repositories and collections (libraries, archives, museums, galleries, data vaults) as well as the different historical forms of information sources (moving from the papyrus and codex up to contemporary forms such as the database). The module engages students in a critical, interdisciplinary examination of the role institutions and collections play in validating and verifying information and information sources, and scrutinises the interplay between audiences, politics, aesthetics, material forms and the socio-economic, technological and socio-cultural elements in which information is situated. The module includes a data curation collaboration with The British Library: students are trained in using Open Refine software and work on a group project, using datasets from The British Library, with guest lectures from British Library staff.

Lecture-seminars will explore the conceptual and theoretical underpinnings of information and information history, providing context for class discussions, and seeking to explore examinations of data preservation, curation, collection, accessibility, intellectual freedom and data and information ethics, amongst other topics. 

The module aims to:
•    Enable students to gain an in-depth knowledge, understanding and critical appreciation of the concept of information, from historical antecedents to digital scientific and cultural heritage forms, in the context of libraries, archives and museums (including alternative, atypical and emergent sources), and how technological, social, cultural and other changes fundamentally affect our concept of “information.” 
•    Develop students’ ability to critically engage and analyse data and information in specific situations that reflect the field of information studies, such as intellectual freedom, community service, professional ethics, social and ethical responsibilities, intellectual property, information/data literacy, historical and international models, the socio-cultural role of libraries and information agencies and institutions in general, focusing in particular on the interrelationships among these issues and sites of practice.
•    Develop students’ critical and practical abilities to assess and improve data quality for later analysis and use, through experiencing and experimenting with the technical aspects of data curation, analysis and digital scholarship techniques. 
•    Develop students’ critical abilities to understand the relevance of historical study to the fundamental and continuing problems of information and its management, with particular reference to the technological and organizational developments that have occurred over the centuries and which impact the field.
•    Enable students to understand the critical, interdisciplinary focus of the field of information studies, in particular the use of information in the context of empire-making and consolidation, making use of theories of colonialism, post-colonialism, science and technology to explore how histories of information, knowledge and power intersect.
•    Provide opportunities for the further development of independent critical reflection, interdisciplinary analysis and team working skills.
 