Basic Genealogy Research Course
A comprehensive 8-week self-directed learning journey
Week 1 of 8 Complete
Week 1: Getting Started with Genealogy
Learning Goals
- Understand the fundamentals of genealogical research
- Learn basic genealogy terminology and concepts
- Set up your first family tree structure
- Identify your immediate research objectives
Introduction to Genealogy
Genealogy is the study of family ancestry and history. It involves tracing your lineage back through generations, uncovering stories, and documenting the lives of your ancestors. This journey combines detective work, historical research, and personal discovery.
Before diving into records and documents, it's essential to start with what you already know. Begin by interviewing family members, collecting family documents, photographs, and any existing family trees or records.
Basic Terminology
Direct Line: Your direct ancestors (parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, etc.)
Collateral Line: Relatives who share common ancestors but are not in your direct line (aunts, uncles, cousins)
Primary Source: Original documents created at the time of an event
Secondary Source: Information derived from primary sources
Week 2: Organizing Your Research
Learning Goals
- Create an effective filing system for genealogical records
- Learn citation methods for genealogical sources
- Understand the importance of documentation
- Develop research strategies and planning techniques
The Foundation of Good Research
Organization is crucial in genealogy. Without proper organization, you'll quickly become overwhelmed with documents, photos, and information. A good system will save you time and prevent you from duplicating research efforts.
Start by creating both physical and digital filing systems. Use consistent naming conventions and always cite your sources properly. Remember: if you can't prove it, don't claim it!
Week 3: Vital Records and Civil Registration
Learning Goals
- Understand different types of vital records
- Learn where to find birth, death, and marriage records
- Navigate government record repositories
- Understand privacy laws and access restrictions
Essential Civil Records
Vital records form the backbone of genealogical research. These government-issued documents provide official proof of life events and typically include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees.
Week 4: Census Records
Learning Goals
- Understand the value of census records in genealogy
- Learn to navigate different census years and formats
- Develop skills in reading handwritten census records
- Use census records to track family movements
The Genealogist's Goldmine
Census records provide snapshots of families at specific points in time. They reveal household compositions, occupations, birthplaces, and immigration information that might not be available elsewhere.
Week 5: Immigration and Naturalization Records
Learning Goals
- Understand the immigration process and its documentation
- Learn about passenger manifests and ship records
- Navigate naturalization papers and citizenship records
- Trace immigrant ancestors across borders
Following the Journey
Immigration records can provide incredible detail about your ancestors' journeys to new countries. These records often contain information about their origins, travel companions, and sponsors in their new homeland.
Week 6: Military Records
Learning Goals
- Identify different types of military records
- Access pension files and service records
- Understand military unit histories
- Use military records to establish timelines and locations
Service and Sacrifice
Military records can provide rich biographical information about ancestors who served. These records often include physical descriptions, family information, and detailed service histories.
Week 7: Church Records and Cemetery Research
Learning Goals
- Understand the importance of religious records
- Learn to locate and access church records
- Develop cemetery research techniques
- Read and interpret gravestone information
Sacred Records
Church records often predate civil registration and can provide baptismal, marriage, and burial information. Cemetery records and gravestones offer final resting place information and family connections.
Week 8: Advanced Research Techniques and DNA
Learning Goals
- Understand genetic genealogy basics
- Learn advanced research methodologies
- Develop skills in breaking through brick walls
- Plan your continuing genealogy education
The Modern Genealogist
DNA testing has revolutionized genealogy, providing new tools for confirming relationships and breaking through research barriers. Combined with traditional research methods, genetic genealogy opens new possibilities for discovery.
□ Course Management
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This is a demonstration version. The full course app will include:
✏️ Editable Content
Easily customize topics, goals, and content for each week
❓ Interactive Quizzes
Multiple choice questions to reinforce learning
□ Study Cards
Flashcards for key terms and concepts
□ Resource Links
Curated videos and websites for each topic
□ Progress Tracking
Monitor student progress through the course
□ Data Export
Export student progress and quiz results