Having looked at some online events coming
soon in last week’s blog post, this week I wanted to share some more ideas for improving or refreshing your
genealogy skills. There are various opportunities,
both online and in person, to enrol in free courses that will help you do just
that. Here are a few suggestions.
FutureLearn is an online education provider
offering courses at a variety of levels, in partnership with established
institutions such as the Open University.
Some of their free short courses are of particular relevance to
genealogists.
From Quakers to railways, Highland clans to suffragettes,
there is plenty to appeal to those with an interest in history. There are also some courses aimed specifically
at family historians: palaeography, Scottish genealogy, and using the British
Library’s resources are some key ones, but there are others. Have a browse through their list of free courses to see what catches your eye.
To join a course, register your interest, and you’ll
receive an email when a place becomes available. Courses run more than once a year, so even if
demand is high, you’ll be able to take part at some point. Online learning materials, videos, and
discussion forums allow you to learn at your own pace and chat with others on
the same course.
Be prepared, though, for the regular reminders to
“upgrade” so that you can receive a certificate of completion or have longer
access to the course materials. These
can be a bit annoying but there is no obligation to fork out for any of the
free courses; simply dismiss these ads when they pop up, or delete the emails!
There are plenty of webinars, classes, tutorials and
learning videos on this (mercifully ad-free) website. Some
are pre-recorded, some are live and interactive, but be aware of the 7-hour time difference
between the library and the UK if you’re planning to watch a live broadcast. For instance, the Sunday Zoom classes are
live but recorded, so if you miss one you can catch up with it later.
Content in the classes and webinars deals with using the
records of many different countries around the world, using the free resources of
FamilySearch. Topics
like DNA testing, Ancestry.com, and breaking down brick walls also feature in
the schedule. Handouts are available to download, too, and there is a live chat function which allows you to contact the librarians for research advice. There is also a live help service using Zoom, Monday-Friday, where you can connect with the help desk volunteers - again, it's in Mountain Standard Time (BST/GMT -7 hours).
In-Person Courses
Family history societies, local heritage centres, public
libraries, and archives may also run on-site classes teaching research skills, perhaps
focusing on special interest themes or the records they hold. While these may not all be free of charge, the
course fees will help support community groups and services.
Check the websites of your nearest research locations to
see if they offer courses or are holding special events to highlight their
collections and facilities to the public.
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