Pathways to the Past:

A Virtual Genealogy Workshop Course

The IAAM's Center for Family History's  Pathways to the Past: A Virtual Genealogy Workshop Series offers a comprehensive exploration into the world of genealogy, designed to empower participants with the tools and techniques necessary to trace their ancestry and build meaningful family stories. 
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Purpose:

The purpose of this series is to provide participants with a structured, supportive learning environment that guides them through the essential steps of genealogy research. Each session is tailored to introduce key concepts, demonstrate research techniques, and offer opportunities for practical application. By the end of the series, participants will have acquired the knowledge, tools, and confidence to continue their genealogical journey independently.

Each session is tailored to introduce key concepts, demonstrate research techniques, and offer opportunities for practical application. By the end of the series, participants will have acquired the knowledge, tools, and confidence to continue their genealogical journey independently.

Benefits:

1. Skill Development

Participants will learn how to access and analyze a wide range of records, from vital statistics and census data to land deeds and military records. The course emphasizes document analysis and source reliability, providing a strong foundation for genealogy research.

2. Guided Exploration

Through a structured curriculum and practical assignments, participants will receive guided instruction in genealogical research methods. They will explore unique resources relevant to African American ancestry, the 1890 census gap, and other key topics.
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3. Learning Through Collaboration

  • Peer Support: Online communities foster a sense of collaboration where learners can help each other, share resources, and discuss ideas, making the learning process more interactive.
  • Group Discussions & Problem Solving: Working in teams on online platforms can simulate real-world collaboration, improving communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Connection with Your Company Peers: Many online learning platforms have networking opportunities where learners can connect with their national and international colleagues, providing an invaluable professional network.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding Genealogy Fundamentals:
    Gain a solid foundation in the basic principles of genealogy, including effective research methods and organizing your findings.
  • Navigating Research Challenges:
    Learn how to address common obstacles, with a special focus on overcoming the unique challenges in African American genealogy.
  • Utilizing Resources and Databases:
    Explore a range of tools and databases to enhance your research, empowering you to dig deeper into your family history.
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Read. | Watch. | Learn. | Improve.

This series aims to transform participants into confident, skilled family historians, ready to uncover, document, and share their unique ancestral stories.


Meet our team

Brian Sheffey

Director, Center for Family History

Dr. Shelley Murphy

Coordinator of Genealogy Education

Jennifer Randall

Program Manager / Lead Archivist

Our Course

LEARN AT YOUR PACE

This course is designed for flexible, self-paced learning, allowing students to explore genealogy research at their own convenience.

Consult with a genealogist

Learn from a genealogy educator for guidance on research strategies, resource selection, and overcoming challenges in your family history search.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Find inspiration and support from your colleagues by sharing discoveries, research tips, and challenges throughout the course.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can we help you?

Do I need prior experience in genealogy to take this course?

No, this course is designed for both beginners and those with some genealogy research experience.

What if I encounter challenges in my research?

The course provides strategies for overcoming common research obstacles, and you'll have the opportunity to participate in discussions with your colleagues and the genealogy educator.

How much time should I dedicate to this course?

The course is divided into two sessions with a set date for those who want to interact with the educator. After that date, a video will be uploaded to the course for those who prefer a self-faced method of study.

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