Designed for those already on the family history journey, the class welcomes beginners too. The sessions are highly interactive where students are encouraged to work together in resolving the many challenges that genealogy and history more generally throw up. You are encouraged to believe in yourself as your family's expert and to share it with others in affirming ways. There will be a trip to a local historical place organised. If you are looking to make new friends and enjoy learning with others you will find it supplied here.
Course aim
This course aims to encourage a hunger for social context in researching your family history. We will share within and beyond the class what we know about genealogy but also consider the local situation as it affected their lives.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is suitable for beginners and improvers
- It is helpful to have access to one of the subscription genealogy websites but you will be encouraged to use many free sites too. Practicing what you learn at home is important so an internet WiFi connection is also helpful.
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Construct an accurate family tree highlighting your pedigree fully verified with accurate names, dates, places and occupations.
- Contribute positively to a local family history network group in helpful and encouraging ways.
- You will know how to access a wide range of sources and resources ( at least 3) to help you on your genealogical journey.
- Briefly describe how to use records such Parish Registers and those found in the Parish Chest.
- Read documents as evidence using basic palaeographical skills
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
- You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
- You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions
- A file of work will be kept which will help to record your progress
What else do I need to know?
- A selection of materials and basic equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring additional materials with you
- It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- This course could lead to a range of job opportunities. Follow link to National Careers Service for more details https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/
- Become involved with the WEA in a range of voluntary work and other activities including campaigning as a WEA member
- You could progress to Higher Education courses. Follow link to the PEARL website for information http://pearl.open.ac.uk/
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
Download full course information sheet
