IRFL40220

As primary sources for the study of folklore and ethnology, tradition archives present specific challenges to both the researcher and the tradition archivist. They include the theoretical framework underpinning the National Folklore Collection (NFC), the context in which items of tradition were/are recorded, by and from whom, and the process by which they are accessioned and classified. The form in which individual items of tradition are recorded – handwritten notes, verbatim transcripts of interviews, audio or video recordings, photographic images etc. – can determine the evidential value of the items concerned. The intern will work with, and critically evaluate, a variety of original folklore materials recorded in the field, learning the cataloguing methods and classification systems applied in the NFC. Digitisation policies, procedures and principles, the use of controlled vocabularies in information technology, and data asset management and archival sustainability are key elements of the experience gained in the internship. Students will confront ethical issues relating to the duty of care to NFC informants and the publication of archival materials.

Work placements may be arranged in the archives of the National Folklore Collection in University College Dublin (subject to availability). In the normal course of events, students opting for work placement will be expected to keep a journal while on placement and to write an analytical research report based on their workplace experience at the end of the twelve-week period.

N.B. It should be noted that places on this module are limited to two students. It should also be noted that work placements may be subject to health restrictions resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Students will need a computer and internet connection to participate in this module as the module will be delivered online.