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This course will look at what resources you have may have used in the past and see how that may help you get started with your Native American research. We will cover many different resources that you may not have known existed when you began searching for your Native American ancestors. We will start by focusing on the different tribes, such as the Five Civilized Tribes, Early Eastern Tribes, Tribes of the Plains, California Indians, Indians of the Pacific Northwest, and finally the Métis and the First People of Canada. Each lesson has a different tribal focus providing a variety of sources.
Four ''Live Online Meetings'' will be offered during this course.
This course does not qualify as a Certificate course in the Certificate in Genealogical Studies program. It does not have required assignments to submit or an exam to complete.
Although this course is indicated as 6 week, you will have access to the instructor only during the first four weeks. The materials will be available to you for an additional two weeks.
Four ''Live Online Meetings'' will be offered during this course.
This course does not qualify as a Certificate course in the Certificate in Genealogical Studies program. It will not have assignments to submit or an exam to complete.
Although this course is indicated as a 6 week course, you will have access to the instructor only during the first four weeks. The materials will be available to you for an additional two weeks.
Social Media for the Wise Genealogist is a six week course for students who are interested in learning how social networking can help them as genealogists. The methodology behind using social network sites will be discussed.
The National Institute for Genealogical Studies is extremely pleased to be able to use, as the primary text for this course, an outstanding book on this subject, authored by Drew Smith, Social Networking for Genealogists (Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, 2009), to explore behind the scenes of social networking.
Because the course reading material is not proprietary to the National Institute’s course, access to the electronic text of mandatory course reading material will NOT be available online. The course syllabus will primarily serve as a guide to the content of Smith’s book. In addition, it will present some supplemental material, as well as the assignments.
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered. The book is available at GenealogyStore.com
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
Optional Print Course Material: Business Skills: Creating a Business
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Creating a genealogical or personal historian business
requires many steps. First, there is self-analysis to determine
who you are, what you want, how to achieve balance in work and
personal life, and what kind of business you wish to start. Next,
you will need to conduct business and marketing planning, market
analysis, and establish an overall business structure. Finally,
you must consider what you need for your business including
supplies, income, and marketing opportunities. A productivity
tool chest will help round out your plans and get you off on the
right footing. In this course you will learn the skills you need
to accomplish all these things and prepare yourself for starting
a successful business.
This course assumes that you have intermediate or advanced
in either genealogy skills or personal historian skills (i.e.
family history research, writing, photography, audio and video
recording, and/or interviewing) and that you want to use those
skills to create a business.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
SO YOU WANT TO CREATE A BUSINESS
Introduction to Creating a Business
Becoming a Professional
Self-Analysis: Are you Ready to Start a Business
Why Do You Want This?
What Type Of Business Structure Do You Want?
Establishing Your Business
Building a Library
MODULE 2
WRITING YOUR BUSINESS PLAN
What is a business plan and why do you need one?
Steps of Writing a Business Plan
Marketing Plan
Financial Planning/Funding
Business Description & Vision
Mission Statement
Company Vision
Goals and Objectives
Description of Services
Organization and Management
Marketing and Sales Strategy
Financial Management
MODULE 3
CONTRACTS AND FEE STRUCTURE
Things to consider when creating a contract
Types of Contracts
Letters of Agreement
Research Contracts
MODULE 4
MARKETING
What should you market?
Marketing Avenues
Online
Offline
Trade Shows & Conferences
Collaboration
Writing a Marketing Plan
Marketing Strategies to Keep in Mind
MODULE 5
TIME MANAGEMENT
Identifying Time Wasters
Personal vs. Professional Time Management
Tips for Time Management
MODULE 6
TOOLS FOR PRODUCTIVITY
Being Productive in Daily Life
Old School Tools for Productivity
New School Tools for Productivity
Tools to Organize Client Information
Things to Consider
APPENDIX
Optional
Supplies:
- Print Course Material - Business Skills: Business Administration
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Once you have set up your small business, it is not enough to simply sit back, wait for clients to come to you, and provide your services. In order to keep the business viable and successful, you must focus ongoing attention on its overall operation and growth.
This course will identify the various elements involved in keeping a business strong, and will educate you on how to accomplish these. Examples will be drawn from the businesses of providing genealogy and personal history services. Assignments and exercises will offer practical application of the material and opportunities to explore different methods and tools available to the small business owner.
It is recommended that the student complete the course, Business Skills: Creating a Genealogy Business first or have at least written a business plan and started a business before embarking on this course.
Course Length: 7 weeksMODULE 1
STRATEGIC PLANNING
Introduction
Review of Business Plan
Strategic Planning Process
Review of Mission and Vision Statements
Ethics
Key Advisors/Advisory Board
Products/Services
Celebrating Achievements and Milestones
Growing Your Business
Home Office Considerations
Plans for Exiting Your Business
Legal Considerations
SWOT Analysis
Additional Resources
GLOSSARY/DEFINITION OF TERMS
MODULE 2
FINANCIAL MATTERS
Financial Management
Project Management/Timekeeping
MODULE 3
MARKETING AND SALES
Sales Management
Prospect Management
Evaluating the Sales Process
Proposals
Marketing Management
MODULE 4
CLIENT MANAGEMENT
Client Contact/Correspondence/Email
Contracts/Service Agreements/Letters of Understanding
Relationship
Feedback & Evaluations from Clients/Testimonials
Referral
Suggesting Additional Services
MODULE 5
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Professional Image
Professional Connections/Associations
Collaborations with Other Professionals
Subcontracting with Service Providers
Education and Training
Time Management
Space Management
Human Resources
Vendor Management
Equipment and Software
Additional Resources
MODULE 6
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Reasons for Policies and Procedures
Writing/Reviewing/Revising
Special Considerations of Client Resolution Policy for Complaints
Establishing a Reporting Procedure
Conclusion
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered. The book is available at GenealogyStore.com
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
Optional Print Course Materials:Business Skills: Career Development: Choosing a Niche - Part 1
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Creating a genealogical business requires many steps. First, there is self-analysis to determine who you are, what you want, how to achieve balance in work and personal life, and what kind of business you wish to start. Next comes the business planning, market analysis, marketing planning and overall business structure to establish. Finally, considerations of things you need for the business from supplies, income, marketing opportunities, and a productivity tool chest will help round out your plans and get you off on the right footing. In Creating a Business, you will learn the skills you need to accomplish all these things and spend a lot of time thinking about the ins and outs of business.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Board for Certification of Genealogists Code of Ethics
Introduction to Choosing a Niche
Self-Analysis: Are you Ready to Add Income Streams?
What Do You Want and Why Do You Want It?
How to Get From Here to There
Enrich Your Current Focus
Accreditation and Certification Options
MODULE 2
WRITING AND PUBLISHING
Introduction
Self-Analysis: Do You Have the Characteristics of a Writer?
Education
Self-Study
Collaborative Study or Writing Groups
Professional Writing Organizations
Writing Options
Writing for Pay vs. Non-Pay - Pros and Cons
Publishing Options
Writing and Publishing Business Components
MODULE 3
FORENSIC GENEALOGIST
Self-Analysis: Are You Ready to Become a Forensic Genealogist
What Is Forensic Genealogy?
Education
Credentials
Going to Court
Standards of Practice
Professional Organizations
Mentors
Setting Your Fees and Writing Contracts
Marketing
MODULE 4
FAMILY ARCHIVIST
Introduction to Family Archivist
Self-Analysis: Are you Ready to Become a Family Archivist?
Who Uses Archives?
Archives as an Additional Income Stream
Education
Standards of Practice
Professional Organizations
Getting Down To Business
MODULE 5
CONFERENCE ORGANIZER OR SPECIAL EVENT PLANNER
Introduction to Event Planning
Self-Analysis: Do You Have the Skills and Characteristics of a Conference Organizer or Special Events Planner?
Who Needs this Service?
Tips for Getting Started
The Process of Planning an Event
Professional Organizations
Education
Getting Down to Business
Planning a One Day Conference - Example
MODULE 6
HOUSE HISTORIAN
Introduction to House Histories
Who Needs This Service?
House History Research Process
Writing the History of a Home
Historic Registration Programs
Preserving the Home for the Future
Education
Setting Your Fees
House Historian Business Plan and Marketing Plan
Conclusion
Additional Resources
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered. The book is available at GenealogyStore.com
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
Optional Print Course Material: Business Skills: Career Development: Choosing a Niche - Part 2
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Finding your niches in the business of genealogy is something discovered over time. As new opportunities in the business present themselves, you will be faced with choices about which direction to take. Learn about additional niche opportunities in this course including Historian, Organizer, Social Media Marketer, Coach, and explore additional niches on your own based on what you have learned throughout the course. Use this knowledge to continue to grow your genealogy business.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Board for Certification of Genealogists Code of Ethics and Conduct
Introduction to Choosing a Niche
Self-Analysis: Are you Ready to Add Income Streams?
HISTORIAN CAREER
What Is A Historian?
Who Needs This Service?
Historian As A Teacher
Historian As A Personal Historian
Historian As A Writer
Create Your Own Job
Professional Organizations
Marketing
MODULE 2
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER
Self-Analysis: Do you have what it takes to be a Professional Organizer?
Introduction
What is a Professional Organizer?
Who needs this service?
Services
Professional Organizations & Education
Marketing
MODULE 3
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETER
Introduction
Self-Analysis: How Social Media Savvy Are You?
Show What You Know
Who Needs This Service?
Social Media Platforms
Create The Paperwork
Additional Resources
MODULE 4
COACHING
Introduction
Self-Analysis: Do You Have the Skills to be a Coach?
Skill Development
Who needs this service?
Coaching Online Versus In-Person
Education
Professional Organizations
MODULE 5
ADDITIONAL INCOME OPTIONS
Introduction
Option 1: Book Dealer
Option 2: Lecturer
Option 3: Photograph Expert and Photographer
Additional Resources
MODULE 6
ASSESSING ALL THE OPTIONS
Introduction
Step 1: Examine All Your Goals
Step 2: Break Down the Goals
Step 3: Break Down Further
Creating New Opportunities for Income
Optional Print Course Material: Business Skills: Marketing Your Services and Products
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Marketing is the way to get the word out about your business, so that potential clients or customers will find you. As with most professionals, you may prefer to spend your time and energy doing what you do best—whether that is writing books of families’ histories, making video-biographies, or capturing oral histories for a business history—but in order to find clients, you must give adequate attention to marketing. In this course, we will present the basic methods and topics in marketing, geared toward a small business owner like a personal historian or professional genealogist.
It is recommended that you have taken the course, Business Skills: Creating a Business, or at least have written a business plan and started a business.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Suggested Prerequisite/Companion Courses
Short Explanation of Course Value
Course Overview
Marketing Glossary
APPROACHES TO MARKETING
Websites
What is Marketing?
Various Approaches
Let’s Talk About Selling
Let’s Talk About Competition
Additional Resources
MODULE 2
COURSE NOTES & ASSIGNMENTS
TARGET PRACTICE
What Is a Target Market?
Identify Your Targets
How to Get in Front of Ideal Clients
Your Community
MODULE 3
MANAGING YOUR CLIENTS
Your “Targets” Are People
Putting Your Clients First
Create a Database
Ask for Referrals
MODULE 4
BASIC TRAINING: PREPARING FOR MARKETING
Image & Branding
Basic Materials
MODULE 5
MANY WAYS TO MARKET
Marketing Methods
Advertising
MODULE 6
MIXING IT UP
Marketing Mix: The 4 P’s
Planning
Budgeting
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Optional Print Course Material:Business Skills: Establishing and Promoting Your Website
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
A website is an important part of your overall business. But planning, creating and maintaining a website can seem overwhelming. What information should your website include? What should not be part of your website?
In this course we will start at the basics and discuss why
you need a website, provide ideas for your website, and go
through the steps of getting started. Using WordPress and Blogger
for your website and blog will be discussed.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Websites
Why You Need a Website
Getting Started
Suggested Reading & Resources
MODULE 2
CHOOSING & REGISTERING YOUR DOMAIN NAME
Websites
First Things First
.COM vs. All the Others
Domain Name Registrars
Hosting Services
What is Whois
SEO 101
Suggested Reading & Resources
MODULE 3
WHICH ONE DO I CHOOSE?
Websites
Introduction
WordPress.org
Wordpress.com
Blogger
Weebly
Suggested Reading & Resources
MODULE 4
PROFESSIONAL GENEALOGY WEBSITE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS
Websites
Email Marketing Platforms
Essential Elements
Suggested Reading & Resources
MODULE 5
TYING IT ALL TOGETHER
Websites
Introduction
Defining Your Audience & Actions You Want Them to Take
So You Have Defined Your Audience. Now, What Do You Want Them to Do?
Suggested Reading & Resources
MODULE 6
MARKETING
Websites
Word of Mouth
Content Marketing
Blogging - Why Your Website Should Have a Blog
Email Marketing/Newsletters
Social Media
To Advertise or Not to Advertise
Listings with Professional Organizations
Tips
Suggested Reading & Resources
GLOSSARY
Optional Print Course Materials: Skill-Building: Breaking Down Brick Walls
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
NOTE: This course is classified as Basic Level in the Professional Development Certificate Program.
Developed for individuals who are at or working in the Intermediate to Advanced Levels in our other certificate programs, we advise you complete the Analysis and Skills Mentoring-Part 1 course or have a working knowledge of the topics taught in that course prior to completing this one.
Brick walls are a reality in genealogy research, but
fortunately there's hope. In this course, we look at a variety of
strategies you can implement to help turn your research
roadblocks into breakthroughs. We begin with a quick refresher of
some key research concepts to help focus your research and
prepare you for success. Next, we'll walk through some simple
steps to get you prepared for the journey. Finally, we'll
investigate four different approaches to do some brick wall
busting. By the end of this course, you'll have some new ideas
for researching brick walls and the inspiration to forge
ahead.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
GETTING STARTED: PART 1
Introduction
Research Methodology Refresher
Get Organized
Define the Research Problem
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 2
GETTING STARTED: PART 2
Compile Basic Information
Create a List of Name Variations
Learn the Location
Map It
Moving Forward
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 3
STRATEGY #1: REVIEW PREVIOUS RESEARCH
The Importance of Reviewing Previous Research
Create a Research Log
Review Data
Evaluate Data
Analyze Data
Report & Plan
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 4
STRATEGY #2: DEVELOP A TIMELINE
What is a Timeline?
Types of Timelines
Methods for Creating a Timeline
Analyze, Report & Plan
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 5
STRATEGY #3: STUDY THE FAN CLUB
What is the FAN Club?
Finding FAN Club Members
Methods for Tracking Associates
Discovering Patterns & Relationships
Analyze, Report & Plan
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 6
STRATEGY #4: ENGAGE OTHERS
Ancestry.com
The Power of Collaboration
Society Meetings & Conferences
Social Networking Websites
Message Boards & Mailing Lists
Online Family Trees
Blogs
Librarians, Archivists & Other Record Keepers
Suggested Reading and Resources
Optional Print Course Material: Demystifying Culture and Folklore
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Culture and its accompanying behaviors, traditions, stories, etc. (folklore) are an integral part of who we are as human beings. This course encourages students to explore their own roots to determine how their primary cultures (race, ethnicity, nationality) have influenced their ancestors over the generations, and how their subcultures (religion, family, occupations, etc.) have been formed and influenced by the intergenerational folklore passed down from ancestors.
To accomplish these goals, students will be encouraged to apply course theory to their own lives and the lives of their forebears in personal application essays.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
THE VALUE OF FOLKLORE WITHIN A CULTURE
Definitions of Terms
Importance of the Role of Culture in the Subject
Subculture (or Sub-culture)
Folklore/Folkways as a Cohesive Element for the Culture
The Relationship of Culture to Folklore and Vice Versa
MODULE 2
HOW CULTURE AFFECTED OUR IMMIGRANT ANCESTORS’ LIVES
Definitions of Terms
Elements of a Culture
Assumption of Similarities
Language Differences
Nonverbal Misinterpretations
Preconceptions and Stereotypes
Tendency to Evaluate
High Anxiety
MODULE 3
CULTURAL ASSIMILATION
Definitions of Terms
Power Distance in Cultures
Uncertainty Avoidance
How the Terminology and Theories are Applicable to the Lives of Our Immigrant Ancestors and Their Folkways
Creating the Bigger Picture as it Relates to Your Own and Your
Ancestors’ Lives
MODULE 4
FAMILY FOLKLORE & BORMANN’S THEORY OF SYMBOLIC CONVERGENCE
Definitions of Terms
Symbols
Symbolic Convergence
Creating the Bigger Picture as it Relates to Your Own and Your Ancestors’ Lives
MODULE 5
FAMILY FOLKLORE AND JOSEPH CAMPBELL’S THEORIES OF HEROES
Definitions of Terms
Creating the Bigger Picture as it Relates to Your Own and Your Ancestors’ Lives
MODULE 6
CONNECTION BETWEEN ANCESTOR AND LEGENDS AND OUR LIVES TODAY
Definitions of Terms
Creating the Bigger Picture as it Relates to Your Own and Your Ancestors’ Lives
Optional Print Course Material: Research: House and Farm Histories
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Conducting research on property can be as rewarding as conducting
research on ancestors. The goal of this course is to teach the
student to understand the various documents and research
necessary to develop and present a house and/or farm history.
Throughout this course, the student will build their
understanding of house and farm related documents from
established text and assignments that will require the student to
practice their skills.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
BUILDING THE FOUNDATION: HOUSE RESEARCH
Why Conduct House History Research?
Architectural Glossary
Architectural Styles of Houses
Suggested Reading and Resources
Plan Books & Catalogs
MODULE 2
MAIL ORDER HOMES & HOUSE KIT COMPANIES
Mail Order Homes
Sears, Roebuck and Company
Aladdin Company
Pacific Homes
Gordon-Van Tine Co.
Montgomery Ward
Lewis Manufacturing Company - Liberty Homes
International Mill & Timber Co. - Sterling Homes
Ray H. Bennett Lumber Company
Chicago House Wrecking Co. - Harris Brothers
E. F. Hodgson Company
Strandlunds Lustron Company - Lustron Homes
Additional House Kit Companies
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 3
MAPPING IT OUT
The Physical Address
Maps
Interim Report
Google Earth
Google Maps
Historypin
WhatWasThere
David Rumsey Historical Map Collection
HistoryGeo.com
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 4
THE PAPER TRAIL: LAND RECORDS
Introduction
Legal Property Description
Previous Research
Land Glossary
Visit to the Land Office
Grantor and Grantee
Transfer Books
Mortgages
Court Records
Mechanic’s Lien
Tax Assessment
Building Permit
Blueprint
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 5
THE PEOPLE TRAIL: PREVIOUS OWNERS & OCCUPANTS
Previous Owners and Occupants
Photographs and Drawings
Biographical and Historical
Suggested Reading and Resources
MODULE 6
DIGGING UP DIRT: FARM RESEARCH
Land Records
Homestead Act of 1862
Census
Agricultural Schedules
Centennial Farms
Barns and Outbuildings
Suggested Reading and Resources
Optional Print Course Material: Personal Historian: Telling the Stories
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Telling the stories of our ancestors must go beyond the basics of names, dates, and places. We can use those pieces as a foundation but must, as a home builder does, add layers and stories to that foundation.
This course will help you add a Personal Historian component to your business by demonstrating the many layers available. Those layers add depth to both personal and client projects and additional revenue streams to a business.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Adding a Personal Historian Business Component
Pieces of the Personal Historian Puzzle
Collaboration or Business Component?
Personal Historian Educational Opportunities
Personal Historian Income Stream
MODULE 2
GENEALOGY AND HISTORICAL RESEARCH
Genealogists and Personal Historians
Building the Foundation
Interviewing
Add Layers of Personal History
Add Layers of Social History
Add Layers of Historical Research
Outlining the Story
MODULE 3
COMMUNICATION, ORAL HISTORY, AND WRITING
Communication and Interviewing
Additional Tips for Interviewing
Oral History Techniques
Oral History Programs, Archives, and Organizations
Transcribing the Oral History Interview
Writing & Editing the Oral History Interview
The Story as a Book
The Story Told Online
MODULE 4
AUDIO, VISUAL, AND PHOTOGRAPHS
Introduction
Audio & Video Skills
Photo Skills
Print Design and Publishing
Designing a Book
Book Contents
Design
Publishing Options
MODULE 5
TEACHING AND PUBLIC SPEAKING
Introduction
Educational Options
Learning from Mentors
Basics of Public Speaking and Teaching
Avenues of Public Speaking and Teaching
Biography Writing
Legacy Letters or Ethical Wills
Memoir Writing
Photographs and Albums
Consulting on Personal History
MODULE 6
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Introduction
Archiving, Preservation, Conservation
Education
Project Management and Consulting
Additional Niche Products and Services
Optional Print Course Material: Photography: Clues Pictures Hold, Editing, Digitizing and Various Projects
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
A picture is worth a thousand words, so photographs are an integral part of telling a story. This course is designed to help students use and identify photographs to document their family history. Students are encouraged to apply the methods in this course to make the best use of their own family photos and/or those of their genealogy clients.
Assignments will focus on practical applications of methods
using photographs. Students will learn ways to obtain family
photographs, archive them physically and digitally, determine the
photographic processes used, date the photographs, and identify
people and other details in the images.
Although this course is part of the Professional
Development Certificate program, it is suitable for those with a
general interest in family photographs.
Course Length: 9 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Finding Family Photographs
Handling Photographs
Storing Photographs
Digitizing Old Photographs
MODULE 2
A BRIEF HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY AND PHOTOGRAPHIC PROCESSES
History of Photography
Photographic Processes
MODULE 3
ANALYZING THE PHOTOGRAPH CONTENT
Provenance
Where was the photograph found?
How & when was the photograph taken?
Who took the photograph & where?
Who is in the photograph?
What is in the photograph?
Why was the photograph taken?
Post-Mortem Photography
MODULE 4
DATE PHOTOGRAPHS USING CLOTHING STYLES, 1839-1950s
Analyzing Clothing in Photographs
How People Use Clothing
Women’s Clothing
Men’s Clothing
Asian Clothing
African-American Clothing
Native American Clothing
Military Uniforms
Children’s Clothing
MODULE 5
DATING PHOTOGRAPHS USING HAIRSTYLES, 1839-1950s
Hairstyles
Women’s Hairstyles
Men’s Hairstyles
Children’s Hairstyles
MODULE 6
IDENTIFYING FACES IN PHOTOGRAPHS & ARTISTIC RENDERINGS
Identifying People in Photographs
Face Recognition Software
Face Analysis
Observation Techniques
MODULE 7
IDENTIFYING PEOPLE IN PHOTOGRAPHS BASED ON WRITTEN DESCRIPTIONS
Where Can Descriptions Be Found?
Problems with Descriptions
Variations in Descriptions
Descriptions of Appearance
Descriptions of Personality
Obtaining Written Descriptions
MODULE 8
PHOTOGRAPHIC SERVICES GENEALOGISTS CAN PROVIDE
Photography-Related Services
Identification of Faces & Events
Archiving Images
Digitizing Photographs & Documents
Digitizing & Editing Home Movies
Digital Restoration
Photography & Scanning
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered. The book is available at GenealogyStore.com
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
Optional Print Course Material: Writing for Genealogy: Articles, Blogs, Research Reports and so much more
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Writing is an essential part of the work of a professional genealogist. Whether you choose to lecture, research for clients, or write content for others, it is important to not only know how to write but to understand how to incorporate various kinds of writing into your business. This course looks at the different types of writing you may do as a working genealogist and gives tips for resources to help further your knowledge of writing. In this course we will examine continuing education, writing client reports, business writing, writing for societies and for editors.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Introduction to Writing
Education
Books and Websites
Improving Your Skills Through Writing Groups and Writing Practice
Writer’s Resources
MODULE 2
WRITING WORLD ONLINE
Introduction to Writing Online
Blogs
Social Media
Marketing
Website Content
MODULE 3
BUSINESS OF GENEALOGY WRITING
Introduction to Genealogy Business Writing
Writing Your Bio
Correspondence and Proposal Writing
Lectures
Syllabus Materials
Case Studies and Proof Analysis
MODULE 4
WRITING FOR SOCIETIES AND ORGANIZATIONS
Introduction to Writing Societies & Organizations
Writing for Organizations
Indexing Projects
Transcription, Abstract, and Extract Projects
Writing and Editing
Writing Contests
MODULE 5
RESEARCH REPORTS
Standards for a Genealogical Research Report
Essential Elements of a Formal Report
The Working Background
The Body of the Report
Technical and Other Hints
Citing Your Sources
Suggestions For Other Sources
Bibliography Notes
MODULE 6
ARTICLES, BOOKS, AND COURSES
Introduction to Writing Articles, Books & More
Articles and Guides
Photo and Document Captions
Who To Write For
Writing Guides
Article Idea Pitch Components
Educational Courses
Book Projects
Publishing Routes
Optional Print Course Material: Creating Genealogy Programs for Adults and the Younger Generation
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Engaging adults in genealogy has typically been a task for genealogical societies rather than libraries. Today however, many libraries are creating adult genealogy groups and programs. Attendance for these programs is easier to obtain than perhaps a youth program in genealogy. But, these libraries are also looking for ways to engage the youth in genealogy. The problem lies in how to capture their interest and create a program that will convey the basics of research in a way that is both meaningful and engaging.
This course provides an example of creating an adult genealogy program first, as a way to lay the foundation for a youth program. It follows with examples of youth programs for those in grades one through twelve. The examples are laid out into one hour, one and a half-hour, half-day, and full-day workshops and cover the basics of research while also incorporating social and local history. The final result is a rich and useful youth genealogy program. Requirements and suggestions on assisting youth who are earning Scout-type badges follows and finally, you will take the youth workshop beyond the classroom. You will learn ways to continue your own education, create and provide additional resources for your library, and connect with others.
NOTE: Although this course written with the librarian in mind, it is also suitable for the society organizer, archivist, professional genealogist, or teacher.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Getting Started
Board for Certification of Genealogists
Why Teach Adults Genealogy?
Why Teach Youth Genealogy?
Determine Which Youth Program Format Is Best
Identify Resources Available at Your Library for Attendees
Attract Teachers to Your Programs
Advertising
Evaluation
MODULE 2
PRACTICUM
BUILDING AN ADULT GENEALOGY GROUP
Creating the Adult Genealogy Program
Scheduling the Program
Building Program Membership
Program Speakers and Topics
Workshops
Day-Long Conference Events
Creating the Adult Genealogy Program Budget
MODULE 3
PRACTICUM
CREATING WORKSHOPS
Genealogy Youth Goals
Workshop Creation Tips
Workshop Preparation
One-Hour or One and a Half-Hour Workshops
Suggestions on Adapting this Workshop to Younger Students
Half-Day Workshops
Adapting this Workshop for 4th-8th Graders
Suggested Workshop Projects for all Workshop Lengths
MODULE 4
PRACTICUM
CREATING FULL-DAY WORKSHOPS
Tips on Creating Full-Day Workshops
Workshop Preparation
Full-Day Workshops
Suggested Projects
MODULE 5
PRACTICUM
CREATING PROGRAMS FOR MERIT BADGES AND EMBLEMS
Organizational Youth Programs and Genealogy
4-H Program
American Heritage Girls
Boy Scouts Genealogy Merit Badge
Camp Fire Torch Bearer Special Interest Badge
Girl Scouts
Other Scout-like Organizations
MODULE 6
PRACTICUM
MOVING BEYOND THE YOUTH GROUP
Moving Beyond the Workshop
1. Your Online Presence
2. Create Pathfinders
3. Genealogy Society Involvement
4. Continuing Education
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
As the genealogy industry changes in the 21st century, so must the management techniques of genealogical societies so they can and will meet the changing needs of their members. In this course you’ll learn the basics of what is needed to create a genealogy society, its management, and how to implement projects and initiatives that not only engage but can help your society grow. Also addressed will be the legal ramifications of being a society leader, though this is largely a locally-governed issue.
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Course Length: 9 weeks
MODULE 1
PURPOSE AND TYPES OF SOCIETIES
Introduction
Why do we have societies?
Why are some drawn to create or join a society about genealogy?
What makes genealogy, lineage, and historical societies different from one another?
What are the different types of genealogical societies?
Does our area need a society?
What should I expect next?
MODULE 2
SOCIETY CREATION, STRUCTURE, AND GOVERNANCE
Introduction to Robert’s Rules of Order
So what are the first things to accomplish when establishing a new organization?
Who is who?
Term lengths and limits
What types of committees does one find in a genealogy society?
What is a “quorum”?
MODULE 3
LEADERSHIP AND MEETINGS
Types of meetings and tools for them
The agenda and why it is necessary
How decisions are made
Leadership
How meetings can fail to meet the goals of the group
MODULE 4
YOU HAVE A CLUB, NOW WHAT?
Introduction
Venue
Money - Expenses
Source of the money and how it is managed
MODULE 5
YOUR ALLIES: THE MEMBERS, THE WEB, AND THE COMMUNITY
Introduction
Volunteers
Web presence
Your role in the community
MODULE 6
MEMBERSHIP, PROMOTION, AND GETTING PEOPLE TO KNOW YOU
Introduction
Membership
Requirements
Information materials received upon joining
Benefits
Attracting new members (Promotion)
Membership retention
MODULE 7
EDUCATION IN VARIOUS FORMS
Introduction
Education options on a regular, on-going basis
Meeting the educational needs on an even larger scale: Conferences/Seminars & Webinars
Webinars
MODULE 8
GROWTH, CHANGE, AND LEGAL ISSUES
Introduction
Society changes
Member difficulties
Nonprofit status
NOTE: Please be aware this course is classified as Intermediate Level in the Professional Development Certificate Program. Developed for individuals at or working in the Intermediate to Advanced Levels in our other certificate programs. If considering this course, you should have completed or have full knowledge/experience from our courses: Skills: Transcribing, Abstracting & Extracting, Methodology - Part 3: More Strategies, and Methodology - Part 4: Effective Searching and Recording.
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered. These are available at GenealogyStore.com
- Board for Certification of Genealogists, Genealogy Standards, 2nd edition revised (Nashville, Tennessee: Ancestry, 2021).
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace, Third Edition Revised (Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Co., 2017).
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
Optional Print Course Material: Skill Building: Nuts and Bolts of Reporting Research
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
A professional or serious-minded genealogist needs to perfect core skills, whether they conduct research for clients, lecture, or write. These skills include source citation, transcription, and writing. In genealogy, there are some texts that are considered the standard by which professionals are judged ― these include:
*Professional Genealogy: A Manual for Researchers, Writers, Editors, Lecturers Librarians edited by Elizabeth Shown Mills.
*Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace by Elizabeth Shown Mills.
*Mastering Genealogical Proof by Dr. Thomas Jones.
*Genealogy Standards by the Board for Certified Genealogists
These books help prepare the professional or serious minded genealogist for the day-to-day work of writing, analyzing, and preparing information for themselves or the clients.
In this course, the student will study portions of some of the above-mentioned texts and complete assignments and exercises to better understand the key elements taught within its pages.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
CITATION FUNDAMENTALS
Citing Your Sources
Citation Components and Elements
Suggestions For Census Returns
Suggestions For Other Sources
Creating A Citation Toolbox or Citation Template
COPYRIGHT
Websites
MODULE 2
RESEARCH PROCEDURES & LOCALITY GUIDES
Current Research Guides
FamilySearch Family History Research Wiki
Sample Research Guides
MODULE 3
TRANSCRIBING, ABSTRACTING & EXTRACTING
General Rules for Transcriptions
General Rules for Abstracting
General Rules for Extracting
Optional Reading
MODULE 4
RESEARCH PLANS & REPORTS
Research Planning
Suggested Steps in Research Planning
Report Writing
Types Of Reports
Essential Elements Of A Formal Report
CASE STUDY
Case Study Outline
Case Study Information
MODULE 5
EVIDENCE ANALYSIS
PROOF SUMMARIES & CASE STUDIES
MODULE 6
REPORTING YOUR RESEARCH: WRITING SCHOLARLY ARTICLES & BLOGS
Before You Write
Cross all Your T’s and Dot Your I’s
Get Permission
Write But Also Proofread
Peer Reviewed Journals vs. Blogs
NOTE: This course is classified as Intermediate Level in the Professional Development Certificate Program. It has been developed for individuals who are at or working in the Intermediate to Advanced Levels in our other certificate programs. It is advised that you complete the Analysis and Skills Mentoring Program-Part 1 course or have a working knowledge of the topics taught in that course prior to completing this one.
Note: This course requires compulsory materials to be ordered. These are available at GenealogyStore.com
- Board for Certification of Genealogists, Genealogy Standards, 2nd edition revised (Nashville, Tennessee: Ancestry, 2021).
- Jones, Thomas W., Mastering Genealogical Proof (Arlington, Virginia: National Genealogical Society, 2013).
Optional Print Course Material: Skill-Building: Evidence Analysis and Evaluation Using Case Studies
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Taking the time to study a wide variety of case studies and proof arguments/summaries can expand your knowledge of methodology, evidence and analysis, sources, citation formats, cultural mores, immigration patterns, amongst many other things. It will make you a better genealogist by expanding your knowledge beyond the subset of genealogy that you normally work in.
As an example, someone working in Canadian research on a daily basis can learn much from a case study on Irish research and vice versa. Amongst other things, they can learn methodology, new sources of evidence, how to analyze evidence, and even gain geographical and cultural knowledge!
NOTE: A student could spend approximately 6 to 8 hours a week working on this course.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
WHAT ARE PROOF STATEMENTS, PROOF SUMMARIES, AND PROOF ARGUMENTS?
Proof Statements
Proof Summaries
MODULE 2
WHAT ARE CASE STUDIES AND WHERE DO I FIND THEM?
Case Studies
Reasons for Studying a Variety of Case Studies
Source Analysis
MODULE 3
CASE STUDIES...Continued
MODULE 4
CASE STUDIES ... Continued
MODULE 5
CASE STUDIES ... Continued
FURTHER STUDY
Understanding the FAN principle or Cluster Research
MODULE 6
CASE STUDIES ... Continued
Websites
Final Summary
Note: This course is offered to be taken starting on the first Monday beginning in January, April, and September. Please choose the first Monday in one of these three months when assigning a start date to your course.
The obligations of the course assignments have time requirements. An IIGS staff member communicates with you throughout the course to ensure you are on schedule, as well as providing guidance when needed.
Optional Print Course Material: Lecturing Skills Including Preparation
Optional Course Material:- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, editor, Professional Genealogy: A manual for researchers, writers, editors, lecturers and librarians (2001; reprint, Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2012).
- Mills, Elizabeth Shown, editor, Professional Genealogy: Preparation, Practice & Standards (Baltimore, Maryland: Genealogical Publishing Company, Inc., 2018).
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Lecturing Skills is a hands-on course requiring the student to provide a 30-minute presentation online. The assignments have due dates, unlike our other courses, which allows your instructor to review and for IIGS to promote your presentation.
This course focuses on the skills needed to present genealogical-related lectures to a variety of audiences. As a student, you develop all aspects of the lecturing process, including:
- the proposal
- biographical sketch
- marketing
- syllabus material
- creating lecture slides
- and more
In order to complete this course, the student must develop and deliver a 30-minute lecture to an audience of students and/or genealogical society members virtually via the International Institute of Genealogical Studies’ Zoom event. The final presentation is 50% of the grade.
Course Length: 12 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Resources
Note about Terminology
Note about your Final 30-Minute Lecture
Introduction to Genealogical Speaking/Lecturing
Why Be a Genealogy Speaker?
It Ain’t All Glamour!
Take Inventory and Document Your Reputation
Create a Biography
Create a Genealogy Resume
Update, Update, Update
Conclusion
Practical Exercises
Exercise: Positive/Negative Aspects of Speaking
Exercise: Biography
Exercise: Lecture Topic
MODULE 2
BUILDING YOUR PRESENTATION
Creating a Lecture Description
Creating a Syllabus or Handout
Creating Lecture Slides
Slide Presentation Software
Tips for Effective Lecture Slides
Virtual Lectures
How Virtual Lectures Work
Required Equipment
Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Presentations
Practical Exercises
Exercise: Lecture Description Template
Exercise: Lecture Description
Exercise: Syllabus/Handout Template
Exercise: Syllabus/Handout
Exercise: Lecture Slide Template
Exercise: Lecture Slides
Exercise: Attend a Virtual Lecture
MODULE 3
BUILDING SPEAKING SKILLS
Practice, Practice and More Practice
Join a Speaking Organization
It’s Show Time! Practical Tips for Genealogy Presenters
The Q&A Conundrum
The Post Mortem
Dealing with Disaster
It Won’t Happen To Me
Be Prepared
Practical Exercises
Exercise: Syllabus/Handout (continued)
Exercise: Lecture Slides (continued)
Exercise: Lecture Speech
MODULE 4
BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS
Setting Your Rate
Fee or Free?
Cover Your Expenses
Start Local
Answering a Call for Papers
Call for Papers Listings
Preparing Your Response
Speaking Contract
What a Speaking Contract Should Cover
Other Legalese
Marketing Your Business
Blog/Website
Social Media
Facebook Page
A Final Word on Social Media
Memberships
Email Signature
Newsletter Articles
The Presentation
Conclusion
Practical Exercises
Exercise: Lecture Speech (continued)
Exercise: Lecturing Fees
Exercise: List of Local Venues
Exercise: Speaker Contract
Exercise: Email Signature
MODULE 5
ACTIONS & TIMELINE FOR LECTURING
Course of Action
Timeline and Outcome
Practical Exercises
Exercise: Lecture Speech (continued)
Exercise: Action Plan & Timeline
MODULE 6
FINAL 30-MINUTE LECTURE
Guidelines & Instructions
Lecture Date/Time
Lecture Components
Speaker Biography
Lecture Title and Lecture Description
Syllabus/Handout Materials
Lecture Slides
Final Grading Process
Lecture Procedure
Final Comments
APPENDIX