Genealogy: Learning Where You Are From

Course Overview

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to genealogy, the study of family history and lineage.

Participants will learn research techniques to uncover, document, and organize ancestral information, explore various genealogical resources, and apply critical analysis to historical data. This course uses historical records, online databases, and family oral history to build an accurate and meaningful family tree.

Students will also examine how genealogy intersects with fields like history, sociology, and genetics, providing a fuller context of ancestral origins, migration patterns, and cultural heritage.

You Will Be Able to:

Develop Research Skills: Master essential genealogy research skills, including how to locate, interpret, and record information from various historical documents such as census data, birth and death records, military records, and immigration documentation.

Construct Family Trees: Use genealogy software or online platforms to organize and present research findings in a family tree format, ensuring data accuracy and completeness.

Analyze Historical Context: Gain a deeper understanding of historical events, social norms, and migration patterns that shaped the lives and movements of ancestors.

Evaluate Genealogical Sources: Learn to critically assess the sources’ reliability, distinguish between primary and secondary sources, and address potential gaps or inconsistencies in historical records.

Apply Genetic Genealogy: Understand the basics of genetic genealogy and its role in family history research, including how to interpret DNA results and integrate genetic information into traditional genealogical methods.

Preserve and Share Family History: Explore best practices for documenting, preserving, and sharing genealogical findings with family members and future generations, including the ethical considerations involved in genealogy research.

Utilize Digital and Archival Resources: Develop proficiency using digital genealogy tools, such as Ancestry, FamilySearch, and local archives, to expand research and connect with broader genealogical networks.

Explore Cross-Disciplinary Connections: Recognize how genealogy intersects with other disciplines, such as history, anthropology, and genetics, to provide a well-rounded approach to family research.