Language(s) of presentations:
Abstract:
This paper explores several phases of the development and implementation of competencies for the archives profession in Australia from the point of view of the professional association. The paper will cover three aspects: history of competencies, working with cognate organisations and the move to principles-based 'competencies' for the archival profession.
Target audience:
This paper will appeal to anyone with an interest in defining archival competencies, as well as people wishing to gain insights into what does and doesn't work when applying competencies to activities regularly undertaken by professional associations, such as accreditation of education courses.
Overall purpose and significance of session:
The paper is intended as an historical overview of the Australian experience, and will provide a base point for the continuing discourse over the development of an internationally recognised skills-set for archivists across the globe.
Content description:
The paper will include an overview of the initial competencies from the mid 1990s, the development between ASA and RMAA of a Joint Statement of Professional Knowledge, and the uses to which this statement has been put, uncluding forming the basis of the croteria to assess archival education courses, and the move towards principles-based skills definition, such as the ASA Statement on Appraisal.
I wish to extend a warm invitation to all archivists and information professionals to the 16th ICA Congress in Kuala Lumpur from 21- 27 July 2008.