1. VII European Conference on Archives: Archivist: Profession of the Future in Europe Warszawa, May 18-20, 2006 Is archives and records management a profession for practitioners or an academic discipline? Dr Elizabeth Shepherd School of Library, Archive and Information Studies University College London e.shepherd@ucl.ac.uk

2. Introduction Is archives and records management a profession? Is archives and records management an academic discipline, comparable with other scientific and humanities subjects studied in universities? Role of teaching and research in archives and records management

3. Is archives and records management a profession? Four key themes: political engagement and legislation a complex and distinct work group an exclusive professional organisation and appropriate archival education and development

4. Is archives and records management an academic discipline? Graduate programmes in archives for 60 years in UK universities archival educators either practitioners or academics in allied disciplines slow development of research in archives and records management

5. How can we improve the quality and quantity of research in archives and records management? Define priorities for research Career paths of academics and professionals Dissemination of research Robust and appropriate research methodologies

6. ARMReN (Archives and Records Management Research Network) To establish an enduring network to foster research in the academic discipline of archives and records management. To develop interaction between researchers and administrators and information professionals to advance understanding of recorded evidence for transparency and accountability, evidential value, citizens’ rights and life-long education, and theory and practice in archives and records management.

7. VII European Conference on Archives: Archivist: Profession of the Future in Europe Warszawa, May 18-20, 2006 Is archives and records management a profession for practitioners or an academic discipline? Dr Elizabeth Shepherd School of Library, Archive and Information Studies http://www.slais.ucl.ac.uk/ e.shepherd@ucl.ac.uk