Cataloguing and Classification

Cataloguing and classification are core processes in information storage and retrieval.

Knowledge of the major standards used for the format and content of catalogue records, and the ability to apply those standards appropriately, are valuable skills for those working in libraries and other information centres.

This online course introduces you to the principles and practice of library cataloguing and classification. It is designed to enable you to apply international and local standards (RDA: Resource Description and Access, Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), Library of Congress Subject headings (LCSH), and Ngā Upoko Tukutuku Māori Subject Headings) in the creation of catalogue records.

It draws on the principles of classification and categorisation (taxonomy) to explain how classification schemes are developed and used in different contexts, for different groups of users, and for different kinds of information resources.

Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

• Analyse and appropriately apply RDA and associated guidelines developed by National Library of New Zealand in the creation of catalogue records.
• Identify and apply  MARC tags and codes to catalogue records.
• Analyse and appropriately apply DDC and LCSH to provide subject access to a range of information resources.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches to subject access in different contexts, for different user groups and for different kinds of information resource.

Assessment

• 100% internally assessed.

Textbooks

No textbooks are required for this course, however you will have access to the RDT Toolkit http://www.rdatoolkit.org/ via a subscription linked through the Open Polytechnic Library.

Computer and internet requirements

This course is delivered online, so you will access the course and do your study online, which generally includes reading and doing activities, watching videos, downloading content, and writing and submitting assessments online.

For online learning you need:

• Access to a laptop or desktop computer
• Reliable broadband internet and a data plan

Find out more about online learning

If you are unsure if your current computer or internet access will allow you to study online please contact us.