ABSTRACT
Educators and trainers in the field of archives and records management face the challenge of providing for practitioners with widely varying educational backgrounds. At the same time, the professional environment has changed rapidly in recent years as well. Development of research programs is also crucial to the advancement of the profession and the survival of university-based professional education in the discipline. Competency standards for records management are discussed, including their appropriate role in training and education for practitioners. Examples of education and training programs from around the world are mentioned, although the coverage in this entry is not intended to be exhaustive. The role of professional associations as providers of training and in supporting and evaluating professional education programs is also addressed. The International Council on Archives Section for Archival Educators and Trainers provides a community of practice for educators and trainers. Its objectives and recent activities are described.A wide and growing range of career choices is available to archivists and records managers. Traditional employers are national and regional archives, but there are many opportunities for specializing in aspects of the profession and the types of organizations served by the archives. Professionals with the necessary expertise required to manage digital services are in demand. Initiatives to support people of indigenous origin joining the profession and encouragement for the development of community archives are an area of growing interest.
