1) Database. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Database
Prior to reading this article, I was under the impression that databases were simply a storage/information retrieval mechanism. However, after learning about Distributed Databases and Hypermedia Databases, there seems to be so much more. As librarians, this represents the foundation for Information Science. We need to understand and execute these systems in order to navigate internal and external database structures for customers and colleagues.
2) Anne J. Gilliland. Introduction to Metadata, pathways to Digital Information: 1: Setting the Stage
http://www.getty.edu/research/conducting_research/standards/intrometadata/setting.html
In a previous class, I learned that Metadata is information about information. After reading this article, I found that there are many components to this concept beyond the original definition. Data Value, Data Content, and Data Structure are vital components to consider when constructing information, especially within a database structure. Understanding these components will allow users to be better organized, and retrievers to have a much easier time navigating a particular system.
3) Eric J. Miller. An Overview of the Dublin Core Data Model
http://dublincore.org/1999/06/06-overview/, or look at here http://64.233.169.104/search?q=cache:e1fuoT1yznIJ:dublincore.org/1999/06/06-overview;
The visual aid within this article was very helpful in deciphering the foundation of Dublin Core. While doing my Flickr assignment, I utilized a similar model in describing my objects. However, utilizing a controlled vocabulary will help take things one step further in finding very specific forms of information
Adam Brody
I agree that there needs to be a controlled vocabulary. This is probably why I feel slightly out of order, there is no controlled vocabulary for things. Go into one class and they use one set; but another class is different. There needs to be a standardization in vocabulary. Also, after reading your comments on the Gilliland article, I now understand it better and agree with your comment. By understanding the various components that go into a database, users will be better able to organize and retrieve information.
ReplyDeleteMy question is whether or not you see a solution to the non-controlled vocabulary problem? I do not because of the various disciplines, but was wondering what your thoughts on the matter were
Standardised semantics will indeed make finding things easier but there is a something quirky about the way we tag things and it depends on so many factors.Would having to use a predetermined tag rob us of our innate individuality re: nomenclature, would our tagging then have to move in a more linear fashion.
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