Session: #472

Theme & Session Format

Theme:
3. Sustainable archaeology and heritage in an unsustainable world
Session format:
Regular session

Title & Content

Title:
NOT ATTENDED BY SESSION ORGANISERS Utilising Archives for Current Research Purpose, the Difficulties in Forward Compatibility, Storage, Accuracy and Access and the Problems Associated
Content:
With the increasing move towards digitisation and paperless recording across the EAA region, and the inherent increase of data storage and reliance on up to date software are we losing the ability to go and utilise past archives and collection to the same standards as modern archives. Finally, what happens if these archives and collections are lost in a fire or through theft?
This session wishes to explore the many aspects of utilising archives past and present, considering the following points:
- Ease of access to past data and artefact archives across the EAA for future/ongoing investigations or re-evaluation, and how compatible are they with modern systems?
- Can modern techniques like photogrammetry or CT/laser scanning provide not only greater insights into past collections but also a method of preservation and identification in the case of fire or theft?
- What problems do early software programs cause in forward compatibility and comprehensiveness?
- How easy should it be to revisit past archival data and artefacts to possibly change the current understanding or paradigm? i.e. (Geophysical data)
- Are there conflicts with regional and national law or practice for public, commercial and private concerns and what changes should be encouraged?
- Should there be a comprehensive EU/EAA Heritage law/directive/good practice guide?
This session is asking for examples of an integrated approach to the ongoing archive debate/situation, especially from a digital perspective. The presentations should be no more than 20 minutes long and can cover both successes and failures. They should include all problems encountered between the two and any lessons learned with the intention of further informing the Digitising the Archive debate within the EAA.
Keywords:
Archives, Data, Artefacts, Digitisation, Photogrammetry, Scanning
Session associated with MERC:
no
Session associated with CIfA:
yes
Session associated with SAfA:
no
Session associated with CAA:
no
Session associated with DGUF:
no
Session associated with other:

Organisers

Main organiser:
Colin Forrestal (Spain) 1,2,3
Co-organisers:
Gabriella Kaszás (Belgium) 4
Affiliations:
1. CIfA
2. IPHES
3. URV
4. EAA