CA Collection Development & Appraisal 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which appraisal theory holds that archivists should document societal functions and activities rather than acquiring records based solely on organizational hierarchy?
- Macro-appraisal (Correct answer)
- Traditional appraisal
- Intrinsic value theory
- Provenance-based appraisal
Correct answer: Macro-appraisal
Macro-appraisal focuses on the functions and activities of record creators to ensure documentation of broad societal processes.
Question 2: What term describes the value of archival records derived from their usefulness for purposes other than those for which they were originally created?
- Primary value
- Secondary value (Correct answer)
- Intrinsic value
- Evidential value
Correct answer: Secondary value
Secondary value refers to the usefulness of records beyond their original administrative purpose, including evidential and informational value.
Question 3: Which document outlines the scope, priorities, and criteria for acquiring archival materials in a repository?
- Finding aid
- Collection policy (Correct answer)
- Deed of gift
- Accession register
Correct answer: Collection policy
A collection policy defines what a repository collects, ensuring acquisitions align with institutional mission and avoid unnecessary duplication.
Question 4: In archival appraisal, 'functional analysis' primarily examines which aspect of records?
- Physical condition of materials
- Age and rarity of documents
- Activities and purposes that generated the records (Correct answer)
- Storage format and media type
Correct answer: Activities and purposes that generated the records
Functional analysis evaluates the activities, functions, and purposes that gave rise to the records to determine their archival significance.
Question 5: Which concept refers to the process of documenting why specific records were selected or rejected during appraisal?
- Accession reporting
- Appraisal documentation (Correct answer)
- Deaccession logging
- Selection audit
Correct answer: Appraisal documentation
Appraisal documentation creates an accountable record of decisions made during the appraisal process, supporting transparency and future review.
Question 6: A 'deed of gift' in archival practice is best described as:
- A catalog entry for donated items
- A legal transfer of title and intellectual property rights to the repository (Correct answer)
- An inventory of newly acquired collections
- A preservation assessment form
Correct answer: A legal transfer of title and intellectual property rights to the repository
A deed of gift is a legal agreement transferring ownership of archival materials from the donor to the repository, often specifying access restrictions.
CA Collection Development & Appraisal 1
Which appraisal theory holds that archivists should document societal functions and activities rather than acquiring records based solely on organizational hierarchy?