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2023 Virtual Academy

Course Information

Course 1: DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments

Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG

This course’s objective is for students to craft a genealogical proof argument demonstrating that a conclusion about a genetic relationship meets the Genealogical Proof Standard. Genealogical proof arguments are complex source-cited narratives that explain the evidence and reasoning that support a conclusion. When the conclusion addresses a genetic relationship, the proof argument discusses and integrates DNA evidence with evidence from documentary research. A convincing proof argument details the evidence in a meaningful and organized sequence. Proof arguments incorporating DNA evidence include reader-friendly tables and figures showing how numerical DNA data do—or do not—help support hypotheses about genetic relationships.

This HANDS-ON course is designed for those students who have completed research about a biological relationship and now wish to “write it up” into a polished complex proof argument. We will study examples and principles in the morning. Students will have the opportunity to incorporate the morning’s learning into their own proof arguments during private writing time in the afternoon and as homework between weekly sessions. Faculty will be available during afternoon private writing time for consultation. Each day concludes with a paired peer review experience.

Other Instructors

Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
Nancy A. Peters, CG, CGL, editor of the National Genealogical Society Quarterly
Scott Wilds, CG

Dates & Times (Virtual)

Fridays, 8:00 am–4:30 pm MT, 17 February through 24 March 2023

Tuition

Regular Price: $595.00
UGA Member Price: $545.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Prerequisites

This is an advanced course and assumes the student is well-versed in beginning and intermediate DNA topics including inheritance paths, interpretation of markers and mutations, genetic relationship predictions, endogamy, pedigree collapse, clustering, chromosome mapping, targeted testing plans, and DNA-related Genealogy Standards.

Required Pre-Reading

Jones, Thomas W. “Getting the Most from NGSQ Case Studies.” NGS Magazine 41 (October–December 2015): 47–53. (Provided with course Welcome package)
Jones, Thomas W. “GPS Element 5: The Written Conclusion.” In Mastering Genealogical Proof. Arlington, Va.: National Genealogical Society, 2013.
Jones, Thomas W. “Proof Arguments and Case Studies.” In Elizabeth Shown Mills, ed. Professional Genealogy: Preparation Practice and Standards. 2018. Pages 475‒500.
Jones, Thomas W. “Reasoning from the Evidence.” In Elizabeth Shown Mills, ed. Professional Genealogy: Preparation Practice and Standards. 2018. Pages 265‒292.
Jones, Thomas W. “Writing about, Documenting and Publishing DNA Test Results.” In Debbie Parker Wayne, ed. Advanced Genetic Genealogy: Techniques and Case Studies. Pages 277‒302.
Little, Barbara Vines. “Skillbuilding: It’s Not That Hard to Write Proof Arguments.” OnBoard: Newsletter of the Board for Certification of Genealogists 15 (September 2009): 20–23; online, Board for Certification of Genealogists. https://bcgcertification.org/skillbuilding-its-not-that-hard-to-write-proof-arguments/ : 2021.
Stanbary, Karen. “Drowning in DNA? The Genealogical Proof Standard Tosses a Lifeline.” In Debbie Parker Wayne, ed. Advanced Genetic Genealogy: Techniques and Case Studies. Pages 215‒242.

Optional Pre-Reading

Anderson, Robert Charles. Elements of Genealogical Analysis. Boston: New England Historic Genealogical Society, 2014.
Ross-Larson, Bruce. Edit Yourself: A Manual for Everyone Who Works with Words.
Strunk, William Jr., and E.B. White. The Elements of Style.
Zinsser, William. On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction.

Required References

Board for Certification of Genealogists, “Standards for Writing.” In Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed., rev., Nashville, Tenn.: Ancestry.com. 2021. Pages 33–43.
The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th ed. (or 18th ed if released prior to course) University of Chicago Press, 2017.

Optional Essential References (available in the classroom and will be raffled off as door prizes on Friday)

Mills, Elizabeth Shown. Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace, 3rd. ed. rev. Baltimore: Genealogical Publishing Company. 2017.
Mills, Elizabeth Shown. QuickSheet Citing Genetic Sources for History Research Evidence Style, 2nd ed. Baltimore: Genealogical Publishing Co. 2019. Jones, Thomas W. Mastering Genealogical Documentation. Arlington, Va.: National Genealogical Society. 2017.
Thesaurus
Dictionary

Electronic Editions of Essential References

The Chicago Manual of Style Online. This is a subscription-based website. The one-year subscription is $41. A free trial subscription is available for 30 days.

DNA Dreamers Peer Review

Students may self-select a peer review partner or opt to be assigned a partner. Each day (Monday through Thursday), partners meet to provide peer review feedback.

Golden Nuggets

The class will collaborate on a “Golden Nuggets Quicksheet” of handy tips and strategies learned throughout the week.

Outline

Material presented as standard 75-minute lectures and as 25-minute “Topic Talks” (similar to TED talks). Hands-on activities practice the concepts using faculty-provided data and writing samples. Students write about their own problem in the writing lab, often with specific assigned tasks and objectives. Stanbary and Jones are available for 25-minute private consultations during Writing Labs. Lectures and Topic Talks highlight specific Standards.

Course Schedule

Times	Class Title	Instructor
February 17th Blast the Block & Organize the Evidence
8:00–8:30 am	Course Overview and Golden Nuggets Brief introductions, lecture categories, DNA Dreamers Peer Review, Golden Nuggets	Stanbary
8:30–9:00 am	From Intimidation to Empowerment Experiential writing exercise. Students address their fears and anxieties. Write for 20 minutes about obstacles that impede writing progress. Then blast them. Choose from “Prompts for Empowerment” to reframe the obstacles.	Stanbary
9:00–9:45 am	The Beginning: Defining the Problem Standards 11, 50, 59 Writing Lab: Students write the purpose of the proof argument. Define the problem. Describe the starting point. Describe the forgotten ancestor.	Stanbary
10:15–10:45 am	The Evidence: Summarizing the Methodology and the Answer Standards 59, 68 Writing Lab: Students summarize the methodology and the answer.	Jones
10:45–11:30 am	The Evidence: Premises, Propositions, and Logic Standards 40–42, 45, 47, 50, 52, 55, 65 Writing Lab: Students list key points to defend the answer. Students describe premises and propositions for each point.	Jones
1:00–1:45 pm	The Structure of the Middle, Including Conflicting Evidence Standards 48, 50, 52, 55, 61, 65 Provides examples of proof argument structures. Discusses minor conflicts and major conflicts requiring resolution. Justifications to set aside one side of the conflicting evidence. Writing Lab: Students order key points. Students identify any conflicts and craft justification for setting aside one group of conflicting evidentiary items.	Jones
1:45–2:15 pm	Writing About DNA Test Takers Standards 2, 46, 50–53 Selection of test takers. Control for assumptions and confirmation bias. Pedigree evaluation and mitigation Writing Lab: Students describe the base test takers and the focal study group including mitigation of pedigree problems.	Stanbary
2:45–4:00 pm	Examples of Derived Meaning from DNA Test Results Standards 52, 53, 65 Provides examples of derived meaning from DNA test results. Includes a discussion of Shared cM Project and histograms. Writing Lab: Students craft a paragraph to confirm a traced relationship is consistent with genetic evidence.	Stanbary
4:00–4:30 pm	Homework and Peer Review Peer Review: Meet with your partner and describe your case. Homework: Study the article assigned to your small group.	Stanbary
February 24th Organize the Evidence & Craft the Argument
8:00–8:30 am	Descendant Charts Standards 50, 65 Demonstration of Word SmartArt	Stanbary
8:30–9:45 am	Case Study Examples Students break into small groups to discuss the assigned article. Each small group summarizes the structure and choices to meet genealogy standards to the large group. The syllabus includes a list of questions designed to analyze structural details and GPS of the article.	Stanbary, Jones
10:15–11:30 am	Writing Lab: Write Rough Writing Lab: Write rough. No source citations other than URLs or brief description allowed.	(Stanbary, Jones in consultation)
1:00–2:15 pm	Writing Lab: Write Rough (continued)	(Stanbary, Jones in consultation)
2:45–4:00 pm	Tables & Figures, Documentation, Discursive Notes Standards 6, 17, 58, 65 Examples of tables and figures depicting DNA data. Demonstrating research scope. Writing Lab: Organize faculty-provided data into a table.	Jones
4:00–4:30 pm	Peer Review	Stanbary
March 10th Strive for Clear Writing
8:00–9:45 am	Organize a Paragraph Standard 69 Writing Lab: Hands-on activities with faculty-provided examples. Students are provided with a bunch of phrases and asked to organize them into paragraphs beheaded paragraphs and asked to craft a topic sentence a writing sample of multiple paragraphs and asked to craft transition sentences	Jones
10:15–11:30 am	Avoiding Writing Pitfalls Standards 42, 61, 69, 70 Maintain focus. Avoid digression. Avoid repetition. Transform passive voice. Verb choice. Writing Lab: Students are provided with samples to edit.	Jones
1:00–2:15 pm	Writing Lab: Editing Writing Lab: Edit the rough draft. Add topic and transition sentences. Evaluate verb choice. Eliminate passive voice. Reorder sequence.	(Stanbary, Jones in consultation)
2:45–4:00 pm	Writing with Word Standard 67 Page layouts. Headings. Writing Lab: Students craft headings for faculty-provided material.	Jones
4:00–4:30 pm	Peer Review Peer Review: Meet with your partner to listen to and provide feedback. You pick the fragment. Homework: Answer one introspection question.	Stanbary
March 17th The Genealogical Proof Standard
8:00–8:30 am (MDT)	Introspection Discussion	Stanbary
8:30–9:45 am	Meeting Standards Using Rubrics Genealogy Standards, 2nd ed., rev. Discussion includes use of BCG-provided rubrics for the Case Study.	Stanbary
10:15–11:30 am	Who? What? When? Whereis? Wherein? Citations in Proof Arguments Standards 2, 3, 5–7 Documenting parent-child relationships in a match line of descent. Writing Lab: Craft source citations for a variety of statements using DNA test results. Craft a source-cited line of descent.	Jones
1:00–2:15 pm	Creating the Compiled Genealogy Standard 72 Elements, format, numbering systems Writing Lab: Craft the genealogy summary introductory paragraph for the relevant ancestor.	Jones
2:45–4:00 pm	Writing Lab: Writing Genealogy Writing Lab: Continue to edit and refine.	(Stanbary, Jones in consultation)
4:00–4:30 pm	Peer Review Peer Review: Meet with your partner and begin editing his or her work. Homework: Continue editing your peer’s work. Measure your partner’s work against the rubrics. Provide written comments.	Stanbary
March 24th Polish & Submit
8:00–8:30 am	Why Should You Publish? Where Should You Publish?	Jones
8:30–9:45 am	DNA Test Taker Permissions: Balancing Privacy with Verifiability Standards 54, 57 Balancing privacy with verifiability and scholarship. Syllabus includes sample forms. Writing Lab: Write a letter or email to a DNA match seeking permission. Obtain feedback from your peer.	Stanbary
10:15–11:30 am	An Editor's Eye—Cut the Fat! Standards 42, 69 Converting a case study into a published article.	Jones
1:00–2:15 pm	Submitting a Case Study to the NGSQ An NGSQ editor presents an overview of the process from submission to publication. Provides a sample contract. Includes ample time for student questions and discussion.	Peters
2:45–4:00 pm	Submitting a Case Study to BCG A representative of BCG discusses common pitfalls in case studies. Overview of Application Guide for Case Study. Provides examples of judge comments.	Wilds
4:00–4:30 pm	Golden Nuggets Class participates in creation of Golden Nuggets Quicksheet.	Stanbary

Course 2: Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy

Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG

Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG Come explore your potential role in the fast-growing field of forensic genealogy. The instructors—all experienced, practicing forensic genealogists—will introduce students to a broad spectrum of topics. Classes each week will be spent exploring business practices, work products and skill development, and the also the types of work in which forensic genealogists engage. Homework and social media discussions between sessions will strengthen the learning. Students will learn the fundamental skills needed to establish or strengthen their own forensic genealogy practice.

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Thursdays, 10:00 am–2:00 pm MT, 16 February through 20 April 2023

Tuition

Regular Price: $545.00
UGA Member Price: $495.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Who Should Attend

Aspiring and practicing genealogy professionals

Prerequisites

This online course is intended for those with strong genealogical methodology skills who are interested in learning more about the field of forensic genealogy as a career. You will find it helpful to be familiar with The Board for Certification of Genealogists, Genealogy Standards, 2nd Edition Revised (Nashville, Tenn.: Ancestry.com, 2021) and Elizabeth Shown Mills, Professional Genealogy: Preparation, Practice & Standards (Baltimore, Md.: Genealogical Publishing Co., 2018).

Homework and Social Media

The course coordinator and other instructors will participate in the course Facebook group regularly, more so during the week following their particular lectures. Homework assignments will be given most weeks and will be discussed within the Facebook group. No assignments will be turned in or graded, but students are strongly encouraged to complete them to get the most out of the course.

Certificate of Completion

Students must attend all class sessions and submit all homework in order to be eligible for a certificate of completion. When attendance conflicts arise, students may watch the recorded class sessions.

Course Schedule

Times	Class Title	Instructor
February 16th
10:00–10:30 am	Course Introductions	Desmarais
10:30–11:45 am	From Inquiry to Affidavit: Managing a Forensic Case We will track the workflow of a missing heirs case from the initial inquiry through the research to the final affidavit. Learn how research challenges were overcome and how client management software and templates assisted with organization.	Desmarais
12:15–1:30 pm	Resources for Identifying Living People Identifying detailed information for those who have been born in the last 80 years or so can be quite daunting due to privacy laws that protect information on living people. During this session we will discuss some of the most effective strategies for identifying living people and some of the best databases that can be used to provide contact information. We will also discuss some of the best ways to approach living individuals.
February 23rd
10:30–11:45 am	Missing and Unknown Heirs: Law & Procedure for the Forensic Genealogist Do you want to learn about estate and terminology, estate procedures, important rules of evidence, the potential legal pitfalls of this field, ethics, kinship hearings, use of genetic testing and practical issues involved in this field of endeavor? Well, you’ve come to the right place to learn about these necessary building blocks.	Ramage
12:15–1:30 pm	Business Considerations for the Forensic Genealogist Should you operate as an LLC or corporation? What are the tax ramifications? What can I name my company without violating the law? Do I need to concern myself about EINs, licenses, permits and zoning? What types of records should I keep and for how long? What do I need to do when I end my business? Learn about these types of important business issues and more.	Ramage
March 9th
10:30–11:45 am	Finding Families: The Genealogist's Role in MIA/POW Repatriation Did you know that the Department of Defense still searches for unaccounted-for soldiers from past wars? Learn about the role of the forensic genealogist in finding next-of-kin and family DNA donors to help the military repatriate remains.	Desmarais
12:15–1:30 pm	Forensic Genealogy Fees and Contracts/Ethics & Liability Contract elements, forms, special clauses and liability risks will be covered. There will be opportunity for questions about your own contracts. The ethics and legality of contingent fee contracts in estate cases will be discussed along with alternate ways to charge in these cases.	Ramage
March 16th
10:30–11:45 am (MDT)	Real Estate Cases for Forensic Genealogists Why might a real estate attorney or title insurance company hire a forensic genealogist? How does a quiet title action, a reverter clause, or adverse possession come into play? What is the inheritance path for the property through the post-deceased heirs? We’ll discuss the types of real estate cases in which a forensic genealogist might be employed. Case study examples will be incorporated.	Ramage
12:15–1:30 pm	Solving Unknown Parentage Cases with DNA DNA testing has revolutionized birth parent searches for adoptees, the donor conceived and others with no biological family tree. This session will the role of the forensic genealogist using DNA test results to tease out a biological family tree. Interactive case studies will be presented to help attendees understand and interpret the test results.	Bush
March 23rd
10:30–11:45 am	Natural Resources and Mineral Rights Cases Oil and gas has been found in more than half of the United States. Many states also have coal, iron and other minerals to mine. New methods of obtaining these natural resources have resulted in greater activity. The forensic genealogist may become involved in locating the rightful owners or heirs to these mineral rights. This lecture will discuss whether minerals are a part of the surface or subsurface, are they real estate or personal estate, and what is the role of the forensic genealogist in these cases.	Meyers
12:15–1:30 pm	Investigative Genetic Genealogy as a Career	Moore
March 30th
10:30–11:45 am	Writing the Forensic Genealogy Client Report This class will cover the structure of the forensic client report including the starting point data, the research goal, the research log, the summary of findings, and appropriate use of source citations. Developing personalized report templates also will be discussed.	Desmarais
12:15–1:30 pm	Writing Reports for the Adoptee Adoptees and others searching for their biological roots are not often genealogists who are interested in extending their family tree multiple generations nor are they interested in the same level of detail attorneys require in traditional probate cases. This lecture will present a basic format that can be used to write a simple, concise summary for adoptees seeking their biological parent(s).	Bush
April 6th
10:30–11:45 am	True and Correct to the Best of Her Knowledge: Affidavits for the Forensic Genealogist An affidavit is a sworn statement of fact in writing, voluntarily made under oath. Learn about the required parts of an affidavit, and various formats used by forensic genealogists.	Desmarais
12:15–1:30 pm	Family Relationship Charts and Supporting Exhibits Learn how to create family relationship charts, including deciding which data to include, how to add a relationship field, and how to edit the charts and insert them as an exhibit in reports and affidavits. You will also learn tips for adding document images as exhibits, how to label them, and include a source citation.	Desmarais
April 13th
10:30–11:45 am	Other Types of Forensic Work: Guardianships, Unclaimed Persons, Immigration, and More Have you been contacted by a guardian for an incapacitated person or their estate? Maybe you have been contacted by someone dealing with immigration issues or by the local coroner’s office. This lecture will explore other types of work in which a forensic genealogist may find themselves involved.	Meyers
12:15–1:30 pm	Genealogy Standards and Forensic Genealogy Learn why forensic genealogists need to adhere to both Genealogy Standards and evidentiary rules that underlie the acceptance of expert testimony in legal matters. We will also explore why the reliability of an expert's opinion is most often the determining factor as to its admissibility in court. Examples of what courts consider to be reliable and unreliable will be given.	Ramage
April 20th
10:30–11:45 am	Where Does the Evidence Lead? The Forensic Genealogist as Expert Witness Are you an expert witness or a disinterested third party? This lecture will define, and discuss briefly the difference of the two and what you need to know to be an effective expert witness. You also will be given tips on how you can be in control during a deposition or on the stand.	Meyers
12:15–1:30 pm	Ask the Forensic Genealogist: Panel Discussion	Bush, Desmarais, Meyers, Ramage

Course 2B: Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy
(Asynchronous Schedule)

Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG

What is an Asynchronous Schedule?

SLIG is excited to announce our first ever asynchronous course option! Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG, and the faculty of her SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 course have agreed to add this additional asynchronous section. We know that many interested students work full-time during the day and are not able to attend our multi-week courses. This opportunity provides all of the same course content, but with flexibility to work around any schedule. Recorded class sessions will be available to you to watch at your convenience, shortly after the live session. Weekly 30-minute live Q&A sessions will allow students to connect with faculty of that week’s sessions. If you can’t attend the live sessions, you may submit questions in writing and they will be answered and available to view in recordings.

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Via video recordings & live Q&A sessions, 17 February through 26 April 2023.
Live Q&A sessions on Wednesdays from 5:00–5:30 pm MT.

Tuition

Regular Price: $545.00
UGA Member Price: $495.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Who Should Attend

Aspiring and practicing genealogy professionals

Prerequisites

Homework and Social Media

Certificate of Completion

Students must watch all class sessions and submit all homework in order to be eligible for a certificate of completion. Recordings will be available for 30 days after the last course session for viewing.

Course Schedule

Times	Class Title	Instructor
February 17th
Recording available	From Inquiry to Affidavit: Managing a Forensic Case We will track the workflow of a missing heirs case from the initial inquiry through the research to the final affidavit. Learn how research challenges were overcome and how client management software and templates assisted with organization.	Desmarais
Recording available	Resources for Identifying Living People Identifying detailed information for those who have been born in the last 80 years or so can be quite daunting due to privacy laws that protect information on living people. During this session we will discuss some of the most effective strategies for identifying living people and some of the best databases that can be used to provide contact information. We will also discuss some of the best ways to approach living individuals.	Bush
February 22nd
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "From Inquiry to Affidavit: Managing a Forensic Case" and "Resources to Identify Living People"	Desmarais, Bush
February 24th
Recording available	Missing and Unknown Heirs: Law & Procedure for the Forensic Genealogist Do you want to learn about estate and terminology, estate procedures, important rules of evidence, the potential legal pitfalls of this field, ethics, kinship hearings, use of genetic testing and practical issues involved in this field of endeavor? Well, you’ve come to the right place to learn about these necessary building blocks.	Ramage
Recording available	Business Considerations for the Forensic Genealogist Should you operate as an LLC or corporation? What are the tax ramifications? What can I name my company without violating the law? Do I need to concern myself about EINs, licenses, permits and zoning? What types of records should I keep and for how long? What do I need to do when I end my business? Learn about these types of important business issues and more.	Ramage
March 8th
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "Missing and Unknown Heirs: Law & Procedure for the Forensic Genealogist" and "Business Considerations for the Forensic Genealogist"	Ramage
March 10th
Recording available	Finding Families: The Genealogist's Role in MIA/POW Repatriation Did you know that the Department of Defense still searches for unaccounted-for soldiers from past wars? Learn about the role of the forensic genealogist in finding next-of-kin and family DNA donors to help the military repatriate remains.	Desmarais
Recording available	Forensic Genealogy Fees and Contracts/Ethics & Liability Contract elements, forms, special clauses and liability risks will be covered. There will be opportunity for questions about your own contracts. The ethics and legality of contingent fee contracts in estate cases will be discussed along with alternate ways to charge in these cases.	Ramage
March 15th
5:00–5:30 pm (MDT)	Live Q&A Session for "Finding Families: The Genealogist's Role in MIA/POW Repatriation" and "Forensic Genealogy Fees and Contracts/Ethics & Liability"	Desmarais, Ramage
March 17th
Recording available	Real Estate Cases for Forensic Genealogists Why might a real estate attorney or title insurance company hire a forensic genealogist? How does a quiet title action, a reverter clause, or adverse possession come into play? What is the inheritance path for the property through the post-deceased heirs? We’ll discuss the types of real estate cases in which a forensic genealogist might be employed. Case study examples will be incorporated.	Ramage
Recording available	Solving Unknown Parentage Cases with DNA DNA testing has revolutionized birth parent searches for adoptees, the donor conceived and others with no biological family tree. This session will the role of the forensic genealogist using DNA test results to tease out a biological family tree. Interactive case studies will be presented to help attendees understand and interpret the test results.	Bush
March 22nd
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "Real Estate Cases for Forensic Genealogists" and "Solving Unknown Parentage Cases with DNA"	Ramage, Bush
March 24th
Recording available	Natural Resources and Mineral Rights Cases Oil and gas has been found in more than half of the United States. Many states also have coal, iron and other minerals to mine. New methods of obtaining these natural resources have resulted in greater activity. The forensic genealogist may become involved in locating the rightful owners or heirs to these mineral rights. This lecture will discuss whether minerals are a part of the surface or subsurface, are they real estate or personal estate, and what is the role of the forensic genealogist in these cases.	Meyers
Recording available	Investigative Genetic Genealogy as a Career	Moore
March 29th
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "Natural Resources and Mineral Rights Cases" and "Investigative Genetic Genealogy as a Career"	Meyers, Moore
March 31st
Recording available	Writing the Forensic Genealogy Client Report This class will cover the structure of the forensic client report including the starting point data, the research goal, the research log, the summary of findings, and appropriate use of source citations. Developing personalized report templates also will be discussed.	Desmarais
Recording available	Writing Reports for the Adoptee Adoptees and others searching for their biological roots are not often genealogists who are interested in extending their family tree multiple generations nor are they interested in the same level of detail attorneys require in traditional probate cases. This lecture will present a basic format that can be used to write a simple, concise summary for adoptees seeking their biological parent(s).	Bush
April 5th
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "Writing the Forensic Genealogy Client Report" and "Writing Reports for the Adoptee"	Desmarais, Bush
April 7th
Recording available	True and Correct to the Best of Her Knowledge: Affidavits for the Forensic Genealogist An affidavit is a sworn statement of fact in writing, voluntarily made under oath. Learn about the required parts of an affidavit, and various formats used by forensic genealogists.	Desmarais
Recording available	Family Relationship Charts and Supporting Exhibits Learn how to create family relationship charts, including deciding which data to include, how to add a relationship field, and how to edit the charts and insert them as an exhibit in reports and affidavits. You will also learn tips for adding document images as exhibits, how to label them, and include a source citation.	Desmarais
April 12th
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "True and Correct to the Best of Her Knowledge: Affidavits for the Forensic Genealogist" and "Family Relationship Charts and Supporting Exhibits"	Desmarais
April 14th
Recording available	Other Types of Forensic Work: Guardianships, Unclaimed Persons, Immigration, and More Have you been contacted by a guardian for an incapacitated person or their estate? Maybe you have been contacted by someone dealing with immigration issues or by the local coroner’s office. This lecture will explore other types of work in which a forensic genealogist may find themselves involved.	Meyers
Recording available	Genealogy Standards and Forensic Genealogy Learn why forensic genealogists need to adhere to both Genealogy Standards and evidentiary rules that underlie the acceptance of expert testimony in legal matters. We will also explore why the reliability of an expert's opinion is most often the determining factor as to its admissibility in court. Examples of what courts consider to be reliable and unreliable will be given.	Ramage
April 19th
5:00–5:30 pm	Live Q&A Session for "Other Types of Forensic Work: Guardianships, Unclaimed Persons, Immigration, and More" and "Genealogy Standards and Forensic Genealogy"	Meyers, Ramage
April 21st
Recording available	Where Does the Evidence Lead? The Forensic Genealogist as Expert Witness Are you an expert witness or a disinterested third party? This lecture will define, and discuss briefly the difference of the two and what you need to know to be an effective expert witness. You also will be given tips on how you can be in control during a deposition or on the stand.	Meyers
April 26th
5:00–5:15 pm	Live Q&A Session for "Where Does the Evidence Lead? The Forensic Genealogist as Expert Witness"	Meyers
5:15–6:30 pm	Ask the Forensic Genealogist: Panel Discussion	Bush, Desmarais, Meyers, Ramage

Course 3: The Art of Writing Client Reports

Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA

Writing effective research reports can be a difficult skill to master. This course will provide instruction and hands-on experience creating each section of a report. A team of professional genealogists will share their expertise in technical writing, evidence analysis, incorporating visual elements, organizing material, time-saving strategies, and documentation. They will share examples of a variety of reporting formats covering simple to complex research problems from a variety of professional perspectives. Participants will learn both by evaluating provided reports and writing a research report during the week. Students should bring a laptop to work on practice exercises in class and complete writing assignments.

Other Instructors

Dates & Times (Virtual)

Fridays, 8:30 am–4:00 pm MT, 31 March through 28 April 2023

Tuition

Regular Price: $595.00
UGA Member Price: $545.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Who Should Attend

Professional and aspiring professional genealogists who would like to improve their research reporting and writing skills.

Prerequisites

The class sessions will include hands-on activities, so students should bring a laptop computer or tablet with Word or another word processing program. There will be homework assignments to practice writing various sections of a research report.

Course Schedule

Times	Class Title	Instructor
March 31st
8:30–9:00 am	Welcome and General Instructions not provided in Meet and Greets	McGhie
9:00–10:15 am	Essential Elements of a Research Report To start off we will discuss the purpose of a research report and the different types of reports, and the typical sections in each report.	McGhie
10:30–11:45 am	Preparation for Success Effective reports begin with focusing the objective and then an analysis and planning process. Many genealogists work from a report template to save time, and write report elements as they are conducting the research.	McGhie
12:45–2:00 pm	Hands On: Evaluating Research Reports The focus of this session is viewing twenty sample research reports from a variety of professional genealogists. These reports represent a variety of reporting styles and will give students ideas on how to report on a variety of records and research problems. The reports will be evaluated using the BCG and ICAPGen rubrics.	McGhie
2:15–3:30 pm	Efficiencies in Report Writing Report writing can be tedious. This session will cover incorporating various efficiencies and a writing process that creates the report as you conduct research and analysis, which can lead to a quicker and more effective report writing process.	Hoffman
3:30–4:00 pm	Homework Assignment	McGhie
April 7th
8:30–9:00 am	Homework Review	McGhie
9:00–10:15 am	Presenting Information from Documents This session will focus on hands-on exercises to practice writing research notes for clients.	McGhie
10:30–11:45 am	Finding the Balance in Research Logging and Report Writing: An Editor's Perspective	Elder
12:45–2:00 pm	Technical Writing (Twenty Principles) This session addresses the “nuts and bolts” of improving professional writing’s readability. Subtopics include writing with fewer words, paragraphing with topic sentences, and avoiding issues related to passive voice, pronouns and antecedents, verb tenses, and other common writing problems.	Jones
2:15–3:30 pm	An Opportunity for Peer Review	McGhie
3:30–4:00 pm	Homework Assignment	McGhie
April 14th
8:30–9:00 am	Homework Review	McGhie
9:00–10:15 am	Documentation for Research Reports: Part I Students will learn to describe sources and information items well enough for their clients to understand each source’s qualities as a container of genealogical information and each information item’s qualities as a provider of genealogical evidence. Part 1 focuses on citing offline sources.	Jones
10:30–11:45 am	Documentation for Research Reports: Part II Students will learn to describe sources and information items well enough for their clients to understand each source’s qualities as a container of genealogical information and each information item’s qualities as a provider of genealogical evidence. Part 2 focuses on citing online sources.	Jones
12:45–2:00 pm	Incorporating Evidence Analysis in a Report A quality analysis of research findings strengthens a research report, increases a client’s confidence in the researcher’s stated conclusions, and helps a client understand the researcher’s methodology. Yet incorporating evidence analysis in a research report challenges many genealogists. During this session, a simple four-step process for including evidence analysis in a research report will be demonstrated and practiced.	Cox
2:15–3:30 pm	Hands-on Practice: Evidence Analysis This session will provide students hands-on experience analyzing documents and records the analysis in the research report.	McGhie
3:30–4:00 pm	Homework Assignment	McGhie
April 21st
8:00–8:30 am	Homework Review	McGhie
9:00–10:15 am	Incorporating DNA Evidence into Client Reports, Part I This session will highlight a technique for correlating documentary evidence items and genetic evidence in a client report. This involves writing decisions to effectively communicate complex information, including shared atDNA segments, predicted genetic relationships, and a detailed descendant tree depicting DNA donors.	Stanbary
10:30–11:45 am	Incorporating DNA Evidence into Client Reports, Part II Continuation of above.	Stanbary
12:45–2:00 pm	Consultations / Peer Review	Elder, Hoffman, McGhie, Stanbary
2:15–3:30 pm	Consultations / Peer Review	Elder, Hoffman, McGhie, Stanbary
3:30–4:00 pm	Homework Assignment	McGhie
April 28th
8:30–9:00 am	Homework Review	McGhie
9:00–10:15 am	Reporting on Complex Problems Clients engage professional genealogists because they have difficult problems. A professional needs the knowledge and skill to clearly communicate complex solutions. Through lecture, discussion, and case examples, students learn to report on information collected over multiple research sessions, indirect and negative evidence, conflicting evidence, proof arguments and the GPS, evidence contradicting family stories, and unexpected results.	Peters
10:30–11:45 am	Forensic Genealogy Reports and Affidavits While they share many similarities, genealogical work products created for legal purposes also differ from traditional professional reports. This session will focus on the unique aspects of reports and affidavits created by forensic genealogists.	Desmarais
12:45–2:00 pm	Writing Reports for ProGenealogists and Legacy Tree Genealogists	Matheson, Woodbury
2:15–3:30 pm	Report Presentation and Visual Elements We live in a visually focused world. Images, charts, tables and maps can aid a client in understanding the information presented and provide a more appealing report.	Hoffman
3:30–4:00 pm	Course Wrap-up	McGhie

Course 4: Writing and Documenting for Peer Review

Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA

Peer review is an essential element of every academic pursuit, including genealogy. The vetting of articles and other work products ensures that the author or applicant is conforming to standards dictated by that discipline. Within the field of genealogy, our scholarly journals present peer-reviewed written work adhering to best practices and genealogy standards. Peer reviewers/judges for our credentialing bodies—the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Genealogists (ICAPGen)—determine whether our knowledge, our analysis, and final products demonstrate consistent high-quality work. Study groups and writing groups present us with opportunities to act as peer reviewers ourselves. This course will examine the peer-review system from several angles, arming students with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve success.

Other Instructors

Dates & Times (Virtual)

Thursdays, 11:00 am–3:30 pm MT, 16 February through 4 May 2023

Tuition

Regular Price: $595.00
UGA Member Price: $545.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Level of Instruction

Intermediate to advanced

Prerequisites

Students should be familiar with the standards outlined in Genealogy Standards, 2nd edition, especially those pertaining to writing and documentation, and should also be familiar with the following concepts: indirect and direct evidence; negative evidence; primary and secondary information; original and derivative records; and authored narratives.

Advance Preparation

As this is a virtual course, students should have access to a reliable Internet connection, a camera, and a microphone. This is an interactive class and we will need to see and hear each other.
Each student should be prepared with two different 500-word writing samples. Neither writing sample needs to be perfect. We will be working together to get it closer to perfect and that’s where the learning takes place! So don’t obsess over either sample. [Note: If you are working on a portfolio for BCG, do not use anything connected to those projects.]
- The first can be any type of writing: a proof argument, a biography, a narrative. This sample will be used in the self-editing homework and the live-editing exercise.
- The second should be a proof argument. This does not have to be a complex argument—a proof argument can be fairly simple—but must prove kinship, resolve conflicting evidence, or correct an error made by others. You should be able to find things to write about within your files. We will use this sample as we simulate writers’ groups with classmates, and practice colleague-to-colleague review.

Technical Requirements

This course will meet online using Zoom Meetings. Sessions will be recorded for personal review and available for up to 30 days following the end of the course. Students are responsible to provide their own equipment and adequate bandwidth to participate actively in the course. Webcams and noise-cancelling headphones are strongly advised. Additional technical information will be sent to registered participants via email.

Homework

Weekly homework assignments will be given to facilitate learning. Some homework will require working in a group outside of class hours. Homework will be turned by Tuesday preceding our class on Wednesday, and will be discussed during class.

Certificate of Completion

Times	Class Title	Instructor
February 16th
11:00 am–12:30 pm	Writing for Peer Review: An Introduction Following student and instructor introductions, we will cover the goals of the course, discuss the concept of peer review and its relevance to genealogical writing and credentialing, and review some concepts of advanced methodology necessary for success in writing for peer review.	K. Jones
1:00–2:15 pm	Constructing the Proof Argument: Organization and Technique Throughout the course, students should be working on a proof argument, taking an argument from the research phase to a finished product. This session will discuss the process of organizing the argument by providing some sample structures, examples of identifying key points, guidance on dealing with conflicting evidence, and more.	T. Jones
2:15–2:45 pm	Assignment of Homework	T. Jones
3:00–3:30 pm	Assignment of Homework	K. Jones
February 23rd
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	T. Jones
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Editing Yourself, Part I Written material submitted for peer review should be grammatically and technically correct, concise and specific, and easy to read. Part 1 addresses “nuts and bolts” issues of improving peer-reviewed writing at word and sentence levels. Subtopics include avoiding issues related to word choice, passive voice, pronouns and antecedents, verb tenses, subject-verb disagreements, and other common writing problems.	T. Jones
1:15–1:45 pm	Discussion of Homework	K. Jones
2:00–3:15 pm	Writing for Peer-Reviewed Scholarly Journals Five American journals have long-standing reputations for presenting strictly peer-reviewed academic scholarship, adhering to rigorous standards: National Genealogical Society Quarterly, The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record, The New England Historical and Genealogical Register, The American Genealogist, and The Genealogist. We will discuss what editors want to see, the peer review and editorial process, and what to expect when working with an editor.	K. Jones
3:15–3:45 pm	Assignment of Homework	McGhie
March 9th
11:00 am–12:15 pm	Editing Yourself, Part II Written material submitted for peer review should be grammatically and technically correct, concise and specific, and easy to read. Part 2 addresses issues of peer-reviewed articles at paragraph, section, and essay levels. Subtopics include writing with fewer words, paragraphing with topic sentences, and infusing structure and flow.	T. Jones
12:15–12:45 pm	Assignment of Homework	T. Jones
1:15–2:30 pm	Deconstructing a Peer-Reviewed Article, Part I The students will read an assigned NGSQ article and come to class prepared to discuss it. They will outline the argument, study the logic, and evaluate the writing.	McGhie
2:30–3:00 pm	Assignment of Homework	McGhie
March 16th
11:00 am–12:15 pm (MDT)	Using Visual Aids and Genealogical Summaries Charts, maps, tables, and genealogical summaries are often used to clarify relationships or present data relevant to the subject. We will discuss when and how to use these aids. And we will also learn why an editor might appreciate seeing your carefully constructed chart or table but cut it anyway.	K. Jones
12:30–1:00 pm	Assignment of Homework	K. Jones
1:30–2:45 pm	Deconstructing a Peer-Reviewed Article, Part II Class discussion comparing the draft of an article submitted to a journal and the final published version of the article. The class will study the suggestions offered by the peer reviewers, the tightening of the language, and the editing of the article.	McGhie
2:45–3:15 pm	Assignment of Homework	McGhie
March 23rd
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	T. Jones
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Live Editing, Part I The instructor will edit writing samples from volunteering students while the class watches. As he edits, the instructor explains the reasons for each change and how it improves the writing sample.	T. Jones
1:15–2:30 pm	Live Editing, Part II The instructor will edit writing samples from volunteering students while the class watches. As he edits, the instructor explains the reasons for each change and how it improves the writing sample.	T. Jones
2:30–3:00 pm	Assignment of Homework	T. Jones
March 30th
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	McGhie
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Learn by Providing Peer Review, Part I Discussion of best practices for providing peer review to colleagues on their work in both formal and informal settings, as well as graciously receiving peer review on your written work.	McGhie
1:15–1:45 pm	Assignment of Homework	McGhie
2:00–3:15 pm	Avoiding Common Mistakes in Genealogical Writing Everyone makes mistakes, and we will discuss mistakes frequently seen by editors. Awareness of the pitfalls in genealogical writing will help you avoid them and improve your writing.	K. Jones
April 6th
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	T. Jones
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Live Editing, Part III The instructor will edit writing samples from volunteering students while the class watches. As he edits, the instructor explains the reasons for each change and how it improves the writing sample.	T. Jones
1:15–2:30 pm	Live Editing, Part IV The instructor will edit writing samples from volunteering students while the class watches. As he edits, the instructor explains the reasons for each change and how it improves the writing sample.	T. Jones
April 13th
11:00 am –12:15 pm	Documenting Your Peer-Reviewed Work: Part I Documentation should show peer reviewers the quality of your sources, how those sources support your writing, and where the reviewers can examine the sources. In part 1, students learn options for citing offline publications and will practice citing them.	T. Jones
12:45–2:00 pm	Documenting Your Peer-Reviewed Work: Part II Documentation should show peer reviewers the quality of your sources, how those sources support your writing, and where the reviewers can examine the sources. In part 2, students learn options for citing unpublished material at archives, historical societies, and other offline venues, and they will practice citing such sources.	T. Jones
2:00–2:30 pm	Assignment of Homework	T. Jones
April 20th
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	McGhie
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Learn by Providing Peer Review, Part II Meeting with peer review group to provide feedback to class members on their proof arguments, followed by a group discussion on the feedback they received and the lessons learned from both offering and receiving constructive suggestions.	McGhie
1:00–1:30 pm	Assignment of Homework	McGhie
2:00–3:15 pm	The Author’s and Applicant’s Perspectives: A Panel Discussion Each panelist has had experience with the peer review process: all have had articles published in peer-reviewed journals; all three hold credentials from BCG and one from ICAPGen; and all have experience as peer reviewers. After short remarks from each of them, they will address students’ questions and comments about the process.	Desmarais, Graham, Stanbary
April 27th
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	T. Jones
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Documenting Your Peer-Reviewed Work: Part III Documentation should show peer reviewers the quality of your sources, how those sources support your writing, and where the reviewers can examine the sources. In part 3, students learn options for citing original online material and material that had been previously published offline. They will practice citing those sources.	T. Jones
1:15–2:30 pm	Documenting Your Peer-Reviewed Work: Part IV Documentation should show peer reviewers the quality of your sources, how those sources support your writing, and where the reviewers can examine the sources. In part 4, students learn options for citing facsimile images of previously unpublished material, and they will practice citing such sources.	T. Jones
2:30–3:00 pm	Assignment of Homework	T. Jones
May 4th
11:00–11:30 am	Discussion of Homework	McGhie
11:30 am–12:45 pm	Learn by Providing Peer Review, Part III A second opportunity to receive feedback from class members on students' proof arguments, followed by a group discussion on the feedback they received and the lessons learned from both offering and receiving constructive suggestions.	McGhie
1:15–1:45 pm	Discussion of Homework	T. Jones
1:45–3:00 pm	Writing About and Citing DNA Test Results Using published case studies as examples, this session focuses on integrating—graphically and in words—DNA and documentary evidence in articles, family histories, and other genealogical writing. It addresses issues of explaining, showing, and citing DNA test results, presenting and documenting living people’s lineages, and citing DNA-related resources.	T. Jones
3:15–3:45 pm	Q&A and Wrap-up	K. Jones

Course 5: Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum

Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA

This course provides an opportunity for genealogists to gain hands-on experience solving two genealogical cases. This will help participants put their research skills into practice while providing structure and guidance. Students will analyze background information, create a research plan, conduct research online, track their findings, analyze and correlate information, and report on conclusions.

The cases in this course address two of the most common research challenges: 1) dealing with multiple people with the same name, and 2) resolving conflicting evidence. The instructors will walk students through the process and teach the research strategies necessary to solve the cases. This experience will help prepare participants to take the Advanced Evidence Analysis Practicum course or apply the skills to new research projects.

Students will work during the week on the case and then gather to discuss their progress with fellow classmates and the instructor. They will compare sources, strategies, and methodologies, discuss challenges, and receive guidance from the instructor. Students should plan 10–20 hours per week to work on the cases and record their findings.

Other Instructors

Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG

Dates & Times

Thursdays, 9:00 am–11:45 am MT, 16 February through 23 March 2023

Tuition

Regular Price: $545.00
UGA Member Price: $495.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Level of Instruction

Intermediate

Certificate of Completion

Course Schedule

Times	Class Title	Instructor
February 16th
9:00–10:15 am	Preparing to Tackle a Practicum Case	McGhie
10:30–11:45 am	Hands-on Research Planning for Case #1	McGhie
February 23rd
9:00–10:15 am	Class Discussion on Progress on Case #1	McGhie
10:30–11:45 am	Analysis Strategies for Working Case #1	McGhie
March 9th
9:00–10:15 am	Class Discussion on Case #1 and Presentation of Solution	McGhie
10:30–11:45 am	Hands-on Research Planning for Case #2	Stanbary
March 16th
9:00–10:15 am (MDT)	Class Discussion on Progress on Case #2	Stanbary
10:30–11:45 am	Analysis Strategies for Working Case #2	Stanbary
March 23rd
9:00–10:15 am	Class Discussion on Case #2 and Presentation of Solution	Stanbary
10:30–11:45 am	Lessons for Working on Other Tough Problems	McGhie

Course 6: Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How

Diana Elder, AG and Lisa Stokes, AG

Earning the Accredited Genealogist credential with the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your research proficiency in a chosen region. Benefits include strengthened research skills, confidence in performing client work, and respect in the genealogy community.

This interactive course will cover the requirements for each ICAPGen testing level and give you valuable information needed for successful testing. Assignments will provide experience with skills needed for passing each testing level. You will use rubrics to evaluate your work and that of your peers. A four-hour practice Level 3 project and a personalized meeting with an AG mentor who is knowledgeable in the chosen region of accreditation will cap off the week.

The instruction, labs, and homework are designed to assist you in the skill-building and preparation needed to start the accreditation process. Discover your accreditation readiness as you learn more about the testing process and receive peer and mentor feedback on your work.

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Thursdays, 8:30 am–4:30 pm MT, 30 March through 27 April 2023

Tuition

Regular Price: $595.00
UGA Member Price: $545.00

[Read More & View Course Schedule]

Instruction Level

This course is for the advanced researcher who is ready to explore the accreditation process.

Prerequisites

This course has the following prerequisites for each attendee:

Read the ICAPGen Guide to Applying for an Accredited Genealogist Credential.
Choose an accreditation region. See Testing Regions at ICAPGen.org
Complete research for one generation of the Four-Generation Project (the same generation should be used throughout the course). See Four-Generation Project Guidelines at ICAPGen.org.
Write an outline for one generation of the Four-Generation Project. The outline should include a list of sources that prove birth, parentage, marriage, and death for the main research subject of that generation.
Gain experience writing genealogical reports, narratives, or summaries.

Course Schedule

Times	Class Title	Instructor
March 30th
8:00–8:30 am	Introduction of Instructors and Attendees	Stokes
8:30–9:45 am	Overview of Accreditation, Peer Review, and the Level 1 Four-Generation Project This session will provide an overview of the accreditation process and look in-depth at the elements of the four-generation project. Students will learn good practices for effective peer review.	Elder
10:15–11:30 am	Research Methodology and the Four-Generation Project Attendees will learn ways to incorporate sound research methodology into the Four-Generation Project and learn to prepare and fine-tune an outline for one generation.	Finlay
1:00–2:15 pm	Levels 1 & 3: Source Citations Source citations are the foundation of solid research. This session will highlight skills for crafting professional and consistent source citations for successful Level 1 and Level 3 projects.	Stokes
2:45–4:00 pm	Levels 1 & 3: Source Citations (Hand-on) Students will practice writing and evaluating source citations.	Stokes
4:00–4:30 pm	Homework Assignment Students will compile a basic source citation template. They will also fine-tune the outline of one generation from their Four-Generation Project.	Elder
April 6th
8:00–8:30 am	Discussion of Homework Assignment Students will discuss their experience creating the outline and citation template.	Stokes
8:30–9:45 am	Levels 1 & 3: Evidence Analysis and Correlation in a Research Report Review the various components of evidence analysis and learn how to discuss them in a Four-Generation Report.	Greenhalgh
10:15–11:30 am	Levels 1 & 3: Writing an Effective Research Report Discover key elements that make reports shine. Learn what to include in a Four-Generation Project report and tips for writing up research in clear and understandable ways.	Greenhalgh
1:00–2:15 pm	Levels 1 & 3: Model for a Well-Written Genealogy Proof This session will discuss organizing research findings into proof summaries or proof arguments for use in the Four-Generation Report.	Stokes
2:45–4:00 pm	Levels 1 & 3: Writing Guidelines and Research Logs Learn guidelines for developing excellent writing skills and learn about the key elements of a successful research log.	Stokes
4:00–4:30 pm	Homework Assignment Students will write one proof summary or proof argument for the Four-Generation Project and create a research log template.	Elder
April 13th
8:00–8:30 am	Discussion of Homework Assignment Students will discuss their experience writing a proof summary or argument and creating a research log template.	Stokes
8:30–9:45 am	Paleography, Extraction, Transcription, Abstraction This session will focus on strategies for reading old handwriting and the differences between an extract, a transcript, and an abstract, including the basic guidelines for creating each for use in a research log or report.	Taylor
10:15–11:30 am	Level 2: Document Interpretation & General Knowledge Students will learn about the Level 2 exams, the types of questions asked, prepare tips, and how to practice for this portion of the testing.	Taylor
1:00–2:15 pm	Level 2: Language Requirements Learn how to prepare for the language requirements of accreditation testing.	Hansen
2:45–4:00 pm	Creating a Research Reference Guide This session will show examples of Research Reference Guides and give tips for creating a guide to prepare students for Level 2 testing.	Greenhalgh
4:00–4:30 pm	Homework Assignment Students will find a record from their chosen accreditation region and then transcribe and abstract it. They will also create general knowledge study questions and make a plan for creating a Research Reference Guide.	Elder
April 20th
8:00–8:30 am	Discussion of Homework Assignment Students will discuss their experience transcribing or abstracting a record and preparing for Level 2 testing.	Elder
8:30–9:45 am	Level 2 & 3: Research Planning This session will cover the research planning skills needed for testing. Students will practice and receive feedback on this vital skill.	Hansen
10:15–11:30 am	Level 2: Practice Session Students will practice document interpretation and create general knowledge practice questions specific to their region.	Meyer
1:00–2:15 pm	Level 3: The Final Project Students will learn the requirements for the four-hour Final Project and how to prepare for this portion of the Level 3 testing.	Hansen
2:45–4:00 pm	Level 3: The Final Project Evaluation Learn how to effectively evaluate a Final Project using the ICAPGen rubrics.	Elder
4:00–4:30 pm	Homework Assignment Students will practice Level 2 skills and take a practice Level 3 Final Project exam in their region.	Stokes
April 27th
8:00–9:00 am	Discussion of Homework Assignment Students will discuss their Level 2 practice assignments.	Stokes
9:00–9:45 am	Discussion on Final Project This session will discuss common challenges in the final project testing and how to overcome them.	Elder
10:15–11:30 am	Regional Resources with AG Mentors Students will meet with an AG mentor from their chosen or similar region to receive research tips for the region and test preparations suggestions.	Elder, AG Professionals
1:00–2:15 pm	Level 3: Oral Review & Ethics, Final Wrap-up This session will cover the oral review and ethics agreement all AGs are required to sign.	Stokes
2:45–4:00 pm	Panel Discussion: How Accreditation Opens Doors Students will have the opportunity to ask Accredited Genealogist professionals questions about working in the professional genealogy field.	Elder, AG Professionals

2023 Virtual Academy

Course Information

Course 1: DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments

Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG

Other Instructors

Dates & Times (Virtual)

Tuition

Prerequisites

Required Pre-Reading

Optional Pre-Reading

Required References

Optional Essential References (available in the classroom and will be raffled off as door prizes on Friday)

Electronic Editions of Essential References

DNA Dreamers Peer Review

Golden Nuggets

Outline

Course Schedule

Course 2: Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy

Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Tuition

Who Should Attend

Prerequisites

Homework and Social Media

Certificate of Completion

Course Schedule

Course 2B: Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy (Asynchronous Schedule)

Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG

What is an Asynchronous Schedule?

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Tuition

Who Should Attend

Prerequisites

Homework and Social Media

Certificate of Completion

Course Schedule

Course 3: The Art of Writing Client Reports

Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA

Other Instructors

Dates & Times (Virtual)

Tuition

Who Should Attend

Prerequisites

Course Schedule

Course 4: Writing and Documenting for Peer Review

Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA

Other Instructors

Dates & Times (Virtual)

Tuition

Level of Instruction

Prerequisites

Recommended Reading

Advance Preparation

Technical Requirements

Homework

Certificate of Completion

Course 5: Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum

Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Tuition

Level of Instruction

Certificate of Completion

Course Schedule

Course 6: Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How

Diana Elder, AG and Lisa Stokes, AG

Other Instructors

Dates & Times

Tuition

Instruction Level

Prerequisites

Course Schedule

Course 2B: Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy
(Asynchronous Schedule)