Education is important for genealogists to undertake. With a vast array of records that we consult to the techniques that we use to solve tough problems, it’s vital that we stay in the know and continually learn. This is a topic that I am passionate about. Had I not taken steps to educate myself from the beginning of my journey, I would not be where I am today with a nicely defined (although still in progress) pedigree and the ability to help others trace their roots.
This is the second in a series of posts about genealogy education.
Note: This page uses affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure statement here.
Webinars
Webinars, which are web-based seminars, are a very popular means of genealogy education. Probably the best well-known series of webinars is Legacy Family Tree Webinars. Held weekly, they cover a wide range of topics. If you become a member, you have access to all recordings and syllabus materials in the archives.
Some genealogical societies also deliver a series of webinars. Usually, they are held monthly and the live broadcast is usually available for free to the public. Typically society members have access to archived recordings and syllabus materials. Here are some of the societies to take a look at:
- Association of Professional Genealogists
- Florida State Genealogical Society
- Georgia Genealogical Society
- Illinois State Genealogical Society
- Minnesota Genealogical Society
- Ontario (Canada) Ancestors
- Southern California Genealogical Society
- Utah Genealogical Association – Virtual Chapter
- Utah Genealogical Association – DNA
- Utah Genealogical Association – Pro Talk
- Wisconsin State Genealogical Society
YouTube
I know what you’re thinking. YouTube is where you go to learn how to fix your toilet or play the guitar. Yes, but there are hundreds of genealogy-related videos all over YouTube. The best videos are those that demo a website, software product, or app. Ancestry has their own YouTube channel, so if you’re looking for how to use the Ancestry website, or learn more about genealogy in general, check it out. Another channel I like comes from Family History Fanatics. And, shameless plug, my Genealogy In Action channel.
FamilySearch Help Center
To find videos, enter a topic in the search bar on the Help Center home page, and then choose the Lessons tab, which will reveal videos. There are videos for researching different ethnic groups, learning about various resources and methods, navigating DNA testing and results, as well as how to use the FamilySearch website.
Ancestry Academy
Ancestry has a great collection of free videos on their website. Here you can learn how to use Ancestry, Newspapers.com, and Find A Grave, as well as how to research in different states and countries, how to use a variety of records, and how to apply different research techniques. You do not have to have a subscription to Ancestry, nor do you need to be logged in. If logged in, you’ll find Ancestry Academy under the Extras menu. If you are not logged in, choose Genealogy from the home page, then choose Ancestry Academy under the Extras menu. Or, simply click this link!
RootsTech Video Archive
RootsTech has offered live streams of different sessions for many years. All of those videos are part of their archive, which dates back to 2015. Tons of videos covering all sorts of topics, including all of the keynote sessions from each conference. The archive even includes videos from last year’s RootsTech London!
TV Shows
There are some great television shows related to genealogy, and it’s another learning opportunity (one that you can share with your not-so-interested-in-genealogy family members). Such shows included Who Do You Think You Are? (TLC; returning to NBC), Finding Your Roots (PBS), Long Lost Family (TLC), A New Leaf (NBC), Roots Less Traveled (NBC), and The Genetic Detective (ABC). Check local listings for air dates/times for those currently. You might be able to find past episodes through the network’s website or app, through streaming providers such as Amazon Prime or Hulu, or on-demand through your cable/satellite provider.
If you learn better by watching and observing, be sure to check out the above resources for great opportunities to expand your knowledge and enhance your skills.
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