Dynamics of Knowledge Organisation

The module studies the involvement and application of semantics in Digital Preservation and focuses on two different but potentially interrelated approaches: (a) vectors, matrices, and vector fields; (b) graph-based structures and ontologies.

Intended target audiences	Digital Preservation and Digital Humanities practitioners who are interested in investigating the deployment of semantics and relevant cutting-edge technologies. Researchers working on semantics who are interested in investigating the application of relevant methods and technologies in a Humanities field.
Expected learning outcomes for the whole Module	Get a first glance at cutting-edge methods and technologies (semantic technologies, vector fields, ontologies). Relate theories of word meaning to vector-based information representation. Learn about the foundations of the Semantic Web initiative and its core concepts and technologies. Explore the relevance of semantic technologies to vastly interdisciplinary fields, like Digital Preservation. Get a better view of the emerging paradigm of knowledge representation through ontologies. Discuss how ontology evolution (i.e. the change of ontologies over time) can serve as a means for studying semantic drift.
Level of advancement/ prerequisites	For Parts 1-3, an elementary understanding of text processing is useful. For Parts 4-6, some basic knowledge of the fundamentals of HTML and XML would be helpful, though not absolutely essential.
Parts in the Module	1. Semantics and DP: basic concepts, theories and trends 2. Vectors and matrices: word meaning for advanced access 3. Vector fields: a new approach to evolving semantics 4. The Semantic Web & the Emergence of Ontologies 5. Semantic Technologies & DP 6. Evolving Semantics: Ontology Evolution & Semantic Drifts
Chronological order / Relationship with other Modules (if any)	Parts 1-3 should be consulted in the given order but they do not depend on Parts 4-6. Parts 4-6 do not need to be followed in this chronological order; however, it would help if Part 4 is viewed prior to Parts 5 and 6.

Estimated time required for completion of the module	The approximate time to complete the entire module is 25-30 hours.