Documentation
Documentation
Documentation (^)
Documentation is the searching for, selecting and gathering of Information relevant to the Problem.
It is concerned with three interlinked activities:
- Location of places where documents can be found
- Survey and analysis of documents
- Use of devices for the recording of documents
It is here organized under two headings:
- Documentation sources : where and what to look for
- Documentation devices : how to record findings
Documentation : sources (^)
see: Selected Tools for Problemistics
Documentation : devices (^)
Log-Book (^)
A Log-Book is an aid for recording Data, Facts and Concepts on a regular basis.
Logging can refer to:
- events
- activities
- ideas
A standardized form of logging makes generally use of:
- Cards and Notes
- Photos and Tapes
Cards and Notes (^)
Cards and Notes are common devices for keeping written records.
The recording can be carried out using:
- paper (e.g. Paper Notebook or Library Cards)
- electronic means (e.g. Personal Digital Assistant)
The information could be recorded in a:
- standardized form (strict guidelines as to the way the information is fed in)
- free form (no restriction as to the format of the recorded information)
or a mixture of both.
Photos and Tapes (^)
Photos and Tapes are common devices for keeping audio-visual records.
They can be produced through a:
- Photo Camera
- Photocopier
- Video Camera
- Audio Recorder
Remark
These recording devices (e.g. Digital Cameras) can be linked to a computer and the material be preserved on a DVD.
Documentation : summing up (^)
Documentation is the gathering of Information deemed necessary for the cognitive framing of a Problem.
Documentation is concerned with :
- Places where documents can be found (e.g. libraries)
- Documents to be surveyed and analysed (e.g. texts, videos)
- Devices for dealing with documents (e.g. recording devices)
Documentation prepares the way for further gathering of Information through Observation.