[DDI-users] Recommended use of TopcClas in DDI-C 2.1

[Steven McEachern]

Hi everyone,

We are looking to make (renewed) use of Topic Classification from DDI-C 2.1:

https://ddialliance.org/Specification/DDI-Codebook/2.1/DTD/Documentation/topcClasType.html

The field definition in the spec defines this as:

"The "vocab" attribute is provided for specification of the controlled vocabulary in use, e.g., LCSH, MeSH, etc. The "vocabURI" attribute specifies the location for the full controlled vocabulary. Maps to Dublin Core Subject element. Inclusion of this element in the codebook is recommended."

With the example(s):

<topcClas vocab="LOC Subject Headings" vocabURI="http://www.loc.gov/catdir/cpso/lcco/lcco.html"> Public opinion -- California -- Statistics</topcClas>

The example and the definition suggest that it is the VOCABULARY that should be used in this field. Our preference however is to actually use the PURL for the specific term here, e.g.:
http://purl.org/au-research/vocabulary/anzsrc-for/2008/16
The aim here is to progressively allow us to provide findability for datasets using a linked data approach.

I'm hoping colleagues can provide feedback on:
a) Is this consistent with the definition of topcClas? (I note specifically the mapping to the DC term "subject" - http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/subject)
b) Is anyone using topcClas in this way?
c) If we did so, does anyone see any problems if we were to link to the specific PURL rather than the vocabulary?

Looking forward to your thoughts.

Regards,
Steve

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Dr. Steven McEachern
Director, Australian Data Archive
Australian National University
Ph. (+61)2 6125 2200
E: steven.mceachern at anu.edu.au
http://www.ada.edu.au
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