Block 1: Definitions and Discoveries

Working in pairs (provided you are not too numerous!)… and, (need I say it?) in English:

1. define the terms 'DOCUMENT' and 'DOCUMENTATION' and 'DOCUMENTARY SPECIALIST'. I am not looking for you to remember some definitions given to you early in your programme; rather I am hoping that you can work together to produce your own definitions.

Remember…good definitions address ALL the standard question words, they do not begin and end at the 'What':-

• What
• Why
• When
• Where
• Who
• How

I want you to write (in English) and be prepared to present, discuss and defend your definitions of the three terms above.  If it takes you two sentences to do it – a paragraph even, that is fine.  I don't just want a bullet list of the What / Who etc…. I want to see flowing definitions which embody the answers to these questions.

2. We will then try to 'pool' all our definitions of each term to make master definitions for each…. then I would like you to review these master definitions and critique them against definitions that you have been offered or those to be found online:

• are our definitions perhaps better?
• can we improve our definitions – enhancing them by incorporating elements of these other definitions?

Write a short critique explaining HOW you improved and enhanced your definition with the work of others…..' of course properly citing and attributing your sources!)

PLENARY

Let's consider (by brainstorming) what SKILLS and KNOWLEDGE BASES you will need to be able be a good Documentation Management professional over the next 15 years or so?

In the light of the above, reflect upon the content of your DOC academic programme…. does it contain EVERYTHING you could ever need in documentation management, or will you have to engage/invest in some form of continuing professional development?