2.2.3. Subject-field Classification Systems

Even as knowledge is created and accumulates in each sphere of activity, it remains highly structured into classification systems (see http://www.loc.gov/catdir/cpso/
lcco/lcco.html (www) (en)) and knowledge structures (see associative network and hierarchical representation examples in TKE'90, volume 1, pages 51-59). These tools facilitate the transfer of knowledge among the members of the same community, between communities, between generations and across language barriers. Each area of specialization has such a system, which must be reflected in every coherent terminology collection in order to ensure its authenticity and pertinence.

Subject-field classification systems may have either a single level or many levels. In some cases, a single level may be defined for subject fields of less interest in a given terminology research environment or project, while several hierarchical levels may be available for the classification of concepts in projects encompassing important spheres of activity. One example of a subject-field classification system can be found in TERMIUM^®. In this classification system, sets of concepts and their terminology are organized into 24 broad subject fields. On average, each broad subject field, or class, is divided into 10 to 12 subject fields (divisions), each of which is, in turn, divided into subfields. This gives a total of about 1,600 classification nodes. This system continues to be adopted and adapted elsewhere by language professionals responsible for establishing smaller terminology databases.

The following table lists the broad K class (Electronics and Informatics) of the TERMIUM^® Subject-field Classification Guide, as well as divisions of this class.

The following table lists the KA division (Cybernetic Systems) of the TERMIUM^® Subject-field Classification Guide (taken from Handbook of Terminology, PAVEL/NOLET 2001:2-3).