Basic Genealogy

HIS 1205 – Basic Genealogy: Researching Family History


Credits: 3

Level: Lower Division (Associate/Freshman–Sophomore level)

General Education Area: Humanities or Elective (based on institutional designation)


Course Description:

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of genealogical research, including traditional and digital methods for tracing family history. Emphasis is placed on using oral histories, public records, archival sources, and online databases to construct multigenerational family trees. Students will learn documentation techniques, historical context analysis, and ethical considerations in handling sensitive information. The course incorporates both domestic and international perspectives, including a focus on genealogical practices in the U.S. and Europe.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the purpose and scope of genealogical research.
  • Collect and interpret family data using oral and documentary sources.
  • Construct a basic family tree using genealogical software and templates.
  • Identify and access local, state, national, and international genealogical archives.
  • Analyze historical records for accuracy and relevance.
  • Understand ethical issues related to privacy and disclosure in genealogy.

Instructional Methods:

  • Video lectures
  • Case studies
  • Research assignments
  • Interviews and oral history collection
  • Final project (dossier and family tree presentation)

Recommended Prerequisites:

None. Basic computer and internet literacy are recommended.

Required Materials:

  • Access to online genealogical tools (FamilySearch.org, MyHeritage, etc.)
  • Handouts and worksheets (provided)
  • Optional textbook: The Genealogy Handbook (ISBN provided by instructor)

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Course Objective

To provide students with the theoretical and practical knowledge to start, conduct, and complete a family genealogy research project, using documentary sources, interviews, digital tools, and basic genetic genealogy, through a structured video lesson format.


Course Structure


Module 1: Introduction to Genealogy

Duration: 4 lessons

Lesson 1: What is Genealogy?

  • Definition
  • Personal and cultural significance
  • Genealogy as a journey through time

Lesson 2: Motivations and Benefits

  • Personal identity
  • Memory recovery
  • Family and emotional bonds

Lesson 3: Types of Genealogy

  • Family, noble, genetic, historical
  • Practical applications

Lesson 4: Historical and European Context

  • Evolution of genealogy in Europe
  • Country-specific differences: records, archives, tools

Activity: Motivational essay and a first mind map of your family tree.


Module 2: Genealogical Research Methodology

Duration: 3 lessons

Lesson 1: The Genealogical Method

  • Collection, verification, archiving

Lesson 2: Oral Sources

  • Interviewing family members
  • Effective questions

Lesson 3: Terminology and Record Sheets

  • Individual, family, and event sheets

Exercise: Interview two relatives and compile genealogical records.


Module 3: The Family Tree

Duration: 3 lessons

Lesson 1: Tree Structures

  • Ascending, descending, complete family trees

Lesson 2: Graphic Representation

  • Paper and digital formats

Lesson 3: Digital Tools

  • Overview of apps and software

Project: Build a family tree with at least 3 generations.


Module 4: Documentary Sources

Duration: 4 lessons

Lesson 1: Civil Records

  • Births, marriages, deaths

Lesson 2: Church Records

  • Parish registers, sacraments

Lesson 3: Civil and Military Archives

  • Censuses, land records, conscription

Lesson 4: Online Sources

  • Antenati.it, FamilySearch, international websites

Exercise: Obtain and analyze an official record (birth or marriage).


Module 5: Archives and Research Locations

Duration: 3 lessons

Lesson 1: Where to Search

  • Municipal, parish, and state archives

Lesson 2: Accessing Documents

  • Formal requests, legal framework

Lesson 3: Digital Archives

  • Navigation and tools

Activity: Write a formal request letter for a genealogical record.


Module 6: Interpreting Sources

Duration: 3 lessons

Lesson 1: Basic Paleography

  • Old scripts, abbreviations

Lesson 2: Source Analysis and Comparison

  • Cross-verification, source reliability

Lesson 3: Common Errors

  • Name duplication, date inconsistencies, incomplete records

Exercise: Transcribe and analyze a handwritten genealogical document.


Module 7: Genetic Genealogy (Introduction)

Duration: 2 lessons

Lesson 1: What is Genealogical DNA?

  • Autosomal, mtDNA, Y-DNA

Lesson 2: Comparing DNA Tests

  • 23andMe, MyHeritage, AncestryDNA

Deep Dive: Create a comparison chart and reflect on ethical implications.


Module 8: Presenting and Preserving Your Research

Duration: 3 lessons

Lesson 1: The Genealogical Dossier

  • Structure, sources, storytelling

Lesson 2: Sharing and Preservation

  • Backup, printing, cloud storage

Lesson 3: Telling Your Story

  • Writing, video, multimedia formats

Final Project: Create a documented genealogical dossier as your final presentation.


Additional Materials

  • PDF slides for each lesson
  • Printable worksheets and exercises
  • Access to a discussion forum or social group for peer exchange


Course Conclusion

By the end of the course:

  • Each student will have a solid, documented family tree
  • Be able to navigate digital and physical archives
  • Possess the skills to continue genealogical research independently

Optional: Final certification upon submission and review of the project.