Learning how to conduct genealogical research using a variety of methods, including online research, archival research, and interviewing family members.
Genealogy basics: Understanding the fundamentals of genealogy, including the importance of documenting sources and tracking research progress.
Research planning: Learning how to plan and organize research, set goals, and prioritize tasks.
Record types: Familiarizing oneself with different types of genealogical records, such as census records, vital records, and wills, and understanding how to use them effectively.
Genealogical software: Becoming familiar with genealogy software tools, including how to select the right tool for one’s needs and how to use them effectively.
Online research: Understanding how to conduct online research, including how to use online genealogy databases, advanced search techniques, and evaluating online sources.
Evidence evaluation: Learning how to evaluate genealogical evidence, including how to assess the reliability of sources, analyze conflicting evidence, and interpret information in context.
DNA and genetic genealogy: Understanding the basics of DNA testing and how to use it in genealogical research.
Oral history: Learning how to conduct oral history interviews with family members to gather information about family history, traditions, and culture.
Citizenship and immigration: Understanding citizenship and immigration laws, naturalization records, and passenger lists, and how to use them in genealogical research.
Military records: Learning how to research military records, including service records, pension files, and other related documents.
Photographs and imagery: Understanding how to use photographs and imagery in genealogical research, including identifying individuals in photographs and analyzing photographic evidence.
Family trees and charts: Learning how to create and use family trees and genealogy charts to visualize relationships and document research progress.
Writing and storytelling: Developing skills in genealogical writing and storytelling, including how to write a family history, memoir, or biography.
Historical and social context: Understanding the importance of historical and social context in genealogical research, including how to research community history, cultural traditions, and social customs.
Genealogical Research: The investigation of family history and lineage through historical records, family lore, and DNA testing.
Historical Research: The analysis of primary and secondary sources to discern the social, cultural, and political context in which an ancestor lived.
Anthropological Research: The study of human societies and cultures to understand ancestors' behaviors and beliefs.
Demographic Research: The analysis of population statistics to identify migration patterns and demographic trends.
Biological Research: The examination of DNA to establish kinship and identify inherited traits and diseases.
Geographical Research: The investigation of the physical and cultural features of locations to identify the social, economic, and occupational factors that influenced ancestors' lives.
Archaeological Research: The excavation of artifacts and ruins to learn about past cultures and societies.
Linguistic Research: The study of language and dialects to understand the origins and migration patterns of ancestors.
Oral History Research: The collection of family stories and memories to gain firsthand knowledge of historical events and societal norms.
Religious Research: The examination of religious traditions and customs to identify ancestor's beliefs and spiritual practices.