Engaging adults in genealogy has typically been a task for genealogical societies rather than libraries. Today however, many libraries are creating adult genealogy groups and programs. Attendance for these programs is easier to obtain than perhaps a youth program in genealogy. But, these libraries are also looking for ways to engage the youth in genealogy. The problem lies in how to capture their interest and create a program that will convey the basics of research in a way that is both meaningful and engaging.
This course provides an example of creating an adult genealogy program first, as a way to lay the foundation for a youth program. It follows with examples of youth programs for those in grades one through twelve. The examples are laid out into one hour, one and a half-hour, half-day, and full-day workshops and cover the basics of research while also incorporating social and local history. The final result is a rich and useful youth genealogy program. Requirements and suggestions on assisting youth who are earning Scout-type badges follows and finally, you will take the youth workshop beyond the classroom. You will learn ways to continue your own education, create and provide additional resources for your library, and connect with others.
NOTE: Although this course written with the librarian in mind, it is also suitable for the society organizer, archivist, professional genealogist, or teacher.
One students experience:
To hear a student discussion regarding their experience with this course, please click here. (This is a large file and may take a minute or two to download.)
Course Content
Module 1
Introduction
Note about Web Addresses
Websites
Optional Reading
Getting Started
Board for Certification of Genealogists
Why Teach Adults Genealogy?
Why Teach Youth Genealogy?
Determine Which Youth Program Format Is Best
Identify Resources Available at Your Library for Attendees
Possible Library Resources
Attract Teachers to Your Programs
Offer Continuing Education Credits
Fill a Curriculum Need
Advertising
Evaluation
Example Evaluation Form
Conclusion
Additional Resources
Module 2
Building An Adult Genealogy Group
Websites
Creating the Adult Genealogy Program
Scheduling the Program
Building Program Membership
Program Speakers and Topics
Workshops
Day-Long Conference Events
Steps to Creating a Conference
Creating the Adult Genealogy Program Budget
Alternatives to a Monthly Program
Conclusion
Additional Resources
Module 3
Creating Workshops
Websites
Optional Reading
Genealogy Youth Goals
Workshop Creation Tips
Workshop Preparation
One-Hour or One and a Half-Hour Workshops
Suggestions on Adapting this Workshop to Younger Students
1st-3rd Grade Students
4th-8th Grade Students
Final Thoughts
Half-Day Workshops
Half-Day Workshop Considerations
Adapting this Workshop for 4th-8th Graders
Final Thoughts
Suggested Workshop Projects for all Workshop Lengths
Additional Resources
Module 4
Creating Full-Day Workshops
Websites
Optional Reading
Tips on Creating Full-Day Workshops
Workshop Preparation
Full-Day Workshops
Suggested Projects
Additional Resources
Module 5
Creating Programs for Merit Badges and Emblems
Websites
Optional Reading
Organizational Youth Programs and Genealogy
4-H Program
American Heritage Girls
Ancestor Detective Badge
Ancestor Detective Badge Requirements
Boy Scouts Genealogy Merit Badge
Boy Scouts Badge Requirements
Camp Fire Torch Bearer Special Interest Badge
Overview
Girl Scouts
Other Scout-like Organizations
Conclusion
Additional Resources
Module 6
Moving Beyond The Youth Group
Websites
Optional Reading
Moving Beyond the Workshop
1. Your Online Presence
Library Website
What is Social Media?
Followers, Friends, and Subscribers
Privacy
Social Media Platforms
Twitter
FaceBook
Blogs
Benefits of an Online Presence and the Use of Social Media
2. Create Pathfinders
Types of Pathfinders
Examples
Placement of the Pathfinders
3. Genealogy Society Involvement
4. Continuing Education
Wikis
Conclusion
Additional Resources
Appendix
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