Search results: 218
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
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: 7 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
Optional Print Course Material: Scottish: Old Parish Registers
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Before the introduction of Statutory Registration in Scotland, the most easily accessible source of information about our ancestors is the Old Parish Registers (OPRs) of the Church of Scotland.
This course will examine in detail the pleasures and pitfalls of the Old Parish Registers (OPRs) and the extent to which they survive. The various indexes to the OPRs and sources to find copies of the OPRs will be examined.
The course will cover the main categories of records for christenings, marriage banns and deaths; and will consider irregular marriages and discuss the major alternative sources for death records: local authority burial records and Monumental Inscriptions.
Course Length: 6 weeks
MODULE 1
OLD PARISH REGISTERS
Introduction
Citing Acts of Parliament
National Archives of Scotland & General Register Office for
Scotland
About the Church in Scotland
Development of the OPRs
Where Are the OPRs Held?
Register of Neglected Entries
What Records Survive? Why so few?
About Parishes
Potentially Confusing Parishes
MODULE 2
BIRTHS & BAPTISMS
Websites
Legislation Affecting Baptisms
Information Given in Baptismal Registers
Illegitimate Births
Errors in Entries
Names & Naming Patterns
MODULE 3
BANNS & MARRIAGES
Legislation Affecting Marriage
Regular Marriages
Irregular & Clandestine Marriages
Handfasting
“Other” Marriages
Prohibited Degrees of Relationship
MODULE 4
DEATHS & BURIALS
Introduction
Legislation Affecting Burials & Deaths
Mortcloths
Information Given in Burial Registers
Alternative Sources for Death Records
MODULE 5
HOW TO FIND THE RECORDS
Introduction to Finding the Records
FamilySearch
Ancestry
Findmypast
ScotlandsPeople
Optional Course Print Material: Scottish: Wills and Testaments
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Wills are one of the most valuable sources for genealogists because they usually mention several family members, even from collateral branches of the family. They are often the easiest means of extending a family tree before the introduction of Statutory Registration in Scotland.
This course will examine Scottish Confirmations and Inventories (the equivalent of English Wills and Admons) in detail. It will cover the legislation defining what could be willed at various periods and the courts which had jurisdiction.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
Glossary
What are Wills and Testaments?
Historical Background
MODULE 2
LEGISLATING RELATING TO TESTAMENTS AND MOVEABLES
Wills and Testaments
Heritable & Moveable Property
Domicile
Legislation Affecting Wills
Legal Rights
19th and 20th Century Legislation
Who Could Inherit?
MODULE 3
THE COURTS & HOW TO FIND THE RECORDS
The Courts
How To Find The Records
Indexes 1801-1823
Testaments 1823-1875
Testaments 1876-1901
ScotlandsPeople
20th Century Testaments
MODULE 4
PROCEDURES FOR CONFIRMING A TESTAMENT
Procedures for Confirming a Testament
Procedure for Confirmation of an Executor
Eiks to Confirmations
MODULE 5
TYPES OF TESTAMENTS & CONTENTS OF TESTAMENTS
Types of Testaments
Elements of a Testament
MODULE 6
ADDITIONAL SOURCES
Websites
English Wills
Death Duties
Great Western Railway Shareholders Index
Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Wills
Unclaimed Estates (Money Left In Chancery)
Help With Handwriting
Help With Unfamiliar Terms
Why Can’t I Find a Will or Testament for My Ancestor?
Optional Print Course Material: Scottish: Census Records
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course looks at the history, structure and contents of the
1841-1911 censuses of Scotland. Strategies for searching and
locating the records will be discussed together with the
limitations of the various sources. We will then look at the
research possibilities of earlier census returns, together with
their survival back to Rev. Dr. Alexander Webster’s census of
1755. We will also look at the National Identity Register of
1939.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO CENSUS RECORDS
Introduction
Citing Acts of Parliament
National Archives of Scotland and General Register Office for Scotland
Glossary
Census Dates
What is a Census?
MODULE 2
CENSUS YEARS 1841-1861
1841 Census
1851 Census
1861 Census
MODULE 3
CENSUS YEARS 1871-1881
1871 Census
1881 Census
MODULE 4
CENSUS YEARS 1891-1911
1891 Census
1901 Census
1911 Census
MODULE 5
CENSUS RECORD SOURCES
ScotlandsPeople
Ancestry.co.uk
Findmypast.co.uk
FreeCEN
FamilySearch
Family History Centers
Family History Societies
Strategies for Searching
Problems with Names
MODULE 6
NATIONAL IDENTITY
1939 National Identity Register
Pre-1841 Census Listings
Optional Course Print Material: Scottish: Statutory Registration
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
Birth, marriage and death certificates are the fundamental building blocks of genealogical research in Scotland. This course looks at the development of the Statutory Registration system in Scotland. It will provide the practical details needed to understand the system of civil registration, where to find and how to use indexes and certificates. The course looks in detail at what the certificates can tell us and at the legislation that affected what was included in certificates at the different periods and in both copies of the registers and certified copies of the certificates.
We will also look briefly at other, less well-known, birth, marriage and death registers including the Minor Records, register of Stillbirths and the Register of Adoptions.
While civil registration started, eighteen years later in Scotland than it did in England and Wales, the records hold much more information and are easier to access.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION & HISTORY
Citing Acts of Parliament
Glossary
National Archives of Scotland and General Register Office of Scotland
Legislation
ADMINISTRATIVE GEOGRAPHY OF SCOTLAND
Chapman County Codes
Easily Confused Registration Districts
MODULE 2
HOW TO FIND THE RECORDS
Paper Indexes
Microfilm of Registers
FamilySearch - Historical Records Collection
ScotlandsPeople Website
Wildcards
BMD Exchange
MODULE 3
BIRTH CERTIFICATES
Registration of Births
Birth Certificates 1861-1965
Birth Certificates 1856-1860
Illegitimacy
Adoption
Register of Stillbirths
Register of Corrected Entries
MODULE 4
MARRIAGE CERTIFICATES
Marriages
Irregular Marriages
Divorce
Marriage Certificates
Marriage Certificates 1861-1972
Marriage Certificates 1856-1860
1855 Marriage Certificates - The Bonus Year
Church Marriage Following an Irregular Marriage
Register of Corrected Entries
Prohibited Degrees of Relationship
MODULE 5
DEATH CERTIFICATES
Websites
Death Certificates
Fatal Accident Inquiries
Register of Corrected Entries
MODULE 6
MINOR RECORDS
Minor Records
Births
Marriages
Deaths
This course explores the
Church of Scotland records beyond the Old Parish Records or Old
Parochial Records (OPRs). It covers the records of:
- Kirk Sessions
- Presbyteries
- Synods
- General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
Course Notes
MODULE 1
CHURCH OF SCOTLAND AND REGISTER RECORD GUIDE
Organization of the Church of Scotland
Governing Structure of the Presbyterian Church
Historical Timeline
Background of Church Registers
Effects of the Registration Act of 1854
Roman Catholic Parish Registers
Other Church Registers
Key Factors in the Survival of Records
Imperfect Conditions of the Registers
Stamp Duties Act of 1783
Dissenters and Nonconformists
Illegibility
Mortcloths
Irregular Deaths
Understanding the Contents of Church Registers
Baptisms
Proclamation of Banns and Marriages
Burials and Deaths
Abbreviations and Unusual Words and Phrases
Recommended Reading and Resources
Module 1 Course Assignments
MODULE 2
KIRK SESSIONS, PRESBYTERIES, SYNODS, AND THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Church Court Records
Kirk Session Records
Presbyteries
Synod
General Assembly
Ecclesiastical Parishes
Contents of Kirk Session Records
Heritors’ Records
Illegitimate Births
Seat Rent Registers
Communion Rolls
Testificates
Public Punishments
Stool of Repentance
Poor Relief Accounts
Witchcraft in Kirk Session Records
Locating Kirk Session Records
What is Available Online?
Local Access
Recommended Reading and Resources
Module 2 Course Assignments
MODULE 3
NON-CONFORMISTS CHURCHES & OTHER RELIGIONS
History of Session Churches
Patronage
The First Session - The Secession Church
Other Presbyterian Dissenters
Burghers and Antiburghers
The Old and New Lights
Relief Church
United Associate Secession Church
Free Church
United Presbyterian Church & United Free Church
Final Unions
Other Religions
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
Methodist Church
Episcopal Church
Secession Churches Record Keeping
What the Records Contain
National Records of Scotland
Parishes and Congregations - Registers in the Index
Recommended Reading and Resources
Module 3 Course Assignments
MODULE 4
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
Introduction to Catholic Parish Registers
Mission Stations
Catholic Parish Records Contents
Births / Baptisms
Confessions
Confirmations
Communicant Lists
Conversion Lists
Deaths, Burials, and Funerals
Marriages
Sick Call Register
Status Animarum
Roman Catholic Bishopric of the Forces: British Armed Forces Worldwide
Latin in Church Catholic Records
Available Catholic Parish Records
Recommended Reading and Resources
Module 4 Course Assignments
MODULE 5
RESEARCHING ONLINE
Introduction
National Records of Scotland
Record Sets/Groups
NRS Online Catalogue
ScotlandsPeople
How to Search Church Registers
Kirk Session Records
Ancestry
Findmypast
Local Archive Access in Scotland
Record Agents for Remote Researchers
Remember…
Module 5 Course Assignments
APPENDIX
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Optional Print Course Material: Scottish: Land and Property Records
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course explores the many sources available for tracing land and property in Scotland. Students will become familiar with the laws concerning the inheritance and ownership of property and the different types of records available to trace both landowners and tenants. Practical guidance is given on locating records held in Scottish archives and in using the many sources now accessible online.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
UNDERSTANDING WHERE YOUR ANCESTORS LIVED
Introduction
Administrative Divisions in Scotland
Scotland: A Brief History
Identifying Where Your Ancestors Lived
Learning More about Where Your Ancestors Lived
MODULE 2
SEARCHING FOR YOUR ANCESTORS BY PLACE
Introduction
Scottish Archives & Libraries: A Brief Introduction
Searching for Ancestors by Place
Street, Trade and Post Office Directories
Telephone Directories
Electoral Registers and Voters Rolls
Valuation Rolls & Community Charge (Poll Tax) Records (1855- present)
Return of Owners of Land
Inland Revenue Survey
Pre-1855 Valuation Rolls and Property Tax Records
Other Tax Records
Heritors Records
Teind Records
Commissioners of Supply
Insurance Records
Newspapers
Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland
MODULE 3
INHERITING LAND AND BUILDINGS
Introduction
Property and Inheritance in Scotland
Inheritance Records
MODULE 4
RECORDS OF PROPERTY OWNERSHIP
Introduction
Crown Grants of Land
Sasines: An Introduction
Sasine Registers from 1617
Structure of a Sasine
Using Sasines: Practical Tips
MODULE 5
RECORDS OF TENANTS
Introduction
Types of Tenants and Tenacies
Records of Tenants
Estate Records: An Introduction
Finding Estate Records
MODULE 6
CONCLUSION
Introduction
Additional Land and Property Sources
Property and Debt
Approaches to Land and Property Research
Practical Tips for Searching Scottish Land and Property Records
CASE STUDY
Optional Print Course Material: Scottish: Special Aspects of Scottish Research
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course introduces concepts and terms which a student of Scottish family history coming to the topic for the first time is unlikely to have encountered in research in other jurisdictions, and an understanding of which will likely be found essential in exploring the resources discussed in the Scottish intermediate and advanced level courses. It includes tables and other information which the student at an Intermediate or Advanced level will be able to refer back to and draw upon when completing later courses.
The topics in this course include Scottish currency, weights, and measures; dates and calendars; languages; glossaries; handwriting; names and naming patterns; clans, septs and tartans; clan and surname DNA projects; heraldry; and compiled genealogies.
Course Length: 7 weeks
MODULE 1
CURRENCY, WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
Currency
Scots Coinage, to 1707
Sterling Currency, from 1707 to 1971
Converting From Scots Money to Sterling
Weights and Measures
Scottish Weights and Measures, to 1707
The Act of Union, 1707
Scottish Weights and Measures, from 1824 to 1969
MODULE 2
CALENDARS AND PALAEOGRAPHY
Calendars, Days and Dates
Scottish Calendar Changes & The Family Historian
Regnal Years & Scottish Family History Research
Palaeography
Scottish Handwriting: Printed Material
MODULE 3
LANGUAGES AND GLOSSARIES
Early Languages in Scotland
(Scottish) Gaelic: Language Tools and Resources
Scots: Language Tools and Resources
Latin: Language Tools and Resources
Glossaries: An Introduction
Online Glossaries for Local and Family Historians
Printed Glossaries for Local and Family Historians
National Archives of Scotland Glossaries
Legal Glossaries
Medical Glossaries
Online Lists of Occupations
MODULE 4
FORENAMES AND PLACE NAMES
(Scottish) Gaelic: Background
Scottish Forenames
Scottish Place Names
MODULE 5
CLANS, SEPTS AND SURNAMES
Surnames in Scotland
The Clans of Scotland
Septs of Scottish Clans
DNA Analysis and Scottish Family History Research
Clan and Surname DNA Projects
Genetic Roots of the People of the British Isles
MODULE 6
SPECIALISED TOPICS AND DIGITAL BOOKS
Compiled Genealogies
Scottish Biographical Dictionaries
Scots Peerage and Nobility
Scots Heraldry
Clans: Tartans, Badges and Mottoes etc.