Context and Digitization: Towards a New Model for Archives

Abstract

While researchers are dependent on the soundness of archival records, most archival research is not based on a method that considers provenance, origins, and context carefully. Researchers may not be aware of the loss of context that is rampant with digitized archival materials and the corresponding loss of evidential and research value. The proposed thesis will examine current digitization strategies, and their shortcomings, by collecting experiences of both digitization practitioners and users. The final research aim is to identify the components necessary in building a digitization project model that is both true to archival principles and that is also an effective resource for archival researchers.