Researching your family history online: FULL
Who is this course for?
Family History Online
Adults who have familiarity with computing. For example; using email or social media platforms. An ability to use a browser to search web pages is essential. A very basic use of using word processing would be helpful but not essential.
This course is ideal for anyone who would like to:
Start researching their family history
As this course is being run online, a laptop with an inbuilt webcam, or a desktop PC with separate webcam is essential.
You will need to undertake a basic digital skills initial assessment, just to ensure you are comfortable with navigating around your device.
Course content
This course is designed to give you a starting point in doing your own online family history research.
You will learn:
• How to search for free information online.
• How to get started
• What are the best web sites to use?
• How to create a family tree.
• How to best use census information.
• Sharing your trees with others
• Learn about the different organisations and companies offering free and paid for services.
• Comparing different family history software
• Privacy & security of your family tree information
• DNA results – what do they actually mean?
• Recording & organising your data
During the course you will watch demonstrations and carry out a range of practical exercises and activities to increase your experience and understanding of starting your own family history research.
Support and feedback
Feedback from the tutor, and discussions with other class members.
Additional costs and requirements
A desktop computer or laptop running ideally Windows 10. A webcam (usually built into laptops) There are no additional cost
Will I have to do anything outside of the session?
No although your tutor may suggest things you could do at home if you wish. It would be advantageous to practice between sessions, and the tutor may send you emails for you to respond to.
About the tutor
Your tutor will be Sheila Barton. Sheila began working for Learn Devon in 2000, she has
taught a variety of IT courses and more recently has been teaching English. Before joining Learn Devon, she worked on a research project in a General Practice in Plymouth, and before that worked in IT at the University of Newcastle on Tyne. Sheila enjoys reading, walking, travelling and is a member of her village’s Parish Council. She also looks after her grandsons.
Sheila enjoys teaching and watching students gain in confidence in their English and IT skills. They then have the opportunity to progress to other courses, gain employment, or help their children with their own learning.
