This class is a fantastic introduction to the world of Electronic Archives (EA). On average, 90% of all documents created are created electronically and this class explores everything from how to save, manage and retrieve data that is essentially made up of 1's and 0's.

The issue of electronic archives is still a fairly new one, but this class will prepare students to deal with the future of archives. Students will learn about Encoded Archival Description, XML, records management and other practical tools that the archivist of the future will need.

One can expect to do assignments that include building a simple web page, working with taxonomies, working with XML, learning EAD, evaluating online and physical finding aids, a midterm and the final project is creating an EAD online finding aid. There are a couple tours included as well.

It is recommended that the student take the introductory archival course. It is also recommended that the student enter the class with at least a basic understanding of HTML and web development. Although there is no prereq for this class, these two characteristics will drastically help one be successful in this class.