Retrospect and prospect: the research landscape of archival studies

This paper reports part of the findings of a project conducted to investigate the current research landscape of archival studies in China and internationally. Study results show that there are similarities and differences between the most popularly studied research areas in Chinese and international archival fields and between the key research topics recommended for the next 5 years by Chinese and international scholars. Three research orientations of archival studies—management, technology, and humanities as well as the areas that need to be delved into in the next 5 years for global and Chinese archival community—were identified. The findings of this article contribute more broadly to our understanding of the status quo and trends of archival research, and can provide a reference for archival scholars to set research agendas at the individual, institutional, local, and national level. The research priorities identified for the next 5 years may be potential areas where international and transdisciplinary cooperation can occur.