5. Metadata
Key
Concepts
DEFINITION
Metadata
describes various attributes of information objects and gives them meaning,
context, and organization. Descriptive metadata theory and practice is
a familiar area for many as its roots are embedded in the cataloging of
print publications. In the digital realm, additional categories of metadata
have emerged to support navigation and file management.
METADATA
TYPES AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
For
practical purposes, the types and functions of metadata can be classified
into three broad categories: descriptive, structural, and administrative.
These categories do not always have well-defined boundaries and often
exhibit a significant level of overlap. For example, administrative metadata
may include a wide range of information that would be considered descriptive
and structural metadata.
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To view a table summarizing the goals, elements, and sample implementations of the three categories of metadata, click on |
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