Topic Areas
This unit examines the processes of determining what subject(s) an information resource is about. Includes nature of aboutness, approaches to aboutness, Wilson, Langridge.
Learning Objectives
- Define aboutness and the basic principles underlying subject analysis.
- Apply various processes for determining subject content of resources.
- Extend the understanding of subject analysis to non-textual materials.
- Describe various approaches to subject analysis and their respective strengths, weaknesses, and possible application.
Guiding Questions
- What is aboutness?
- What is the process for determining subject content?
- How is subject content assigned to non-textual materials?
- What approaches to subject analysis have been offered?
Required Readings
Joudrey, The Organization of Information, Chapter 11 & Appendix E
Holley & Joudrey, "Aboutness and Conceptual Analysis: A Review"
Recommended Readings
- Joudrey, Introduction to Cataloging & Classification, 11th ed., Chapter 11
- Langridge, Subject Analysis: Principles and Procedures
- Wilson, "Chapter V: Subject and the Sense of Position" from Two Kinds of Power