This month, our ProGen Study Group (1) assignment was to make an Education Plan. Last Fall, I spoke about Genetic Genealogy Education and Certification at the East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference (2), and one of the topics in my presentation was making an education plan, so I’ve given this topic a lot of thought! It’s such a great idea to sit down at least once a year to review your plans for your education. But there’s a lot more than just looking at what’s out there!

First, consider that not all learning opportunities need to be formal. There are lots of ways to get genealogical education, such as books, blogs. webinars, Facebook groups, and conferences. I highly recommend checking out Conference Keeper (3) to keep up to date on everything genealogical! You can also check out all my posts on Education (4) for ideas.

Second, think about your focus. What is the purpose of the education? Are you trying to get certification or accreditation? Is it just for fun? Do you have a niche such as a geographical location? Are you interested in practicing genealogy professionally? There are so many educational opportunities out there that it’s necessary to narrow your focus.

Another way to narrow your focus is to consider your experience level. Obviously you don’t want to do advanced classes if you’re a beginner, and vice versa. You also want to consider your strengths and weaknesses, because while you may be advanced in one area, you might be a beginner in others. Where do you have gaps in your education?

The amount of time and money you have available for education is also important. How often can you pursue education? Everyday, once a week, once a month? Will you be able to travel to attend educational opportunities that are not close to you, or will you need to attend virtually? Are there educational opportunities where you live?

How you learn best is another important consideration. I have been working on a self-paced certificate since 2018. Clearly that kind of learning is not for me. However, if you’re more disciplined, but need something flexible, it might be just the thing you’re looking for. Do you need help to stay motivated? A class that takes place at a specific time, whether in person or virtual, just might be your thing.

I highly recommend sitting down and writing out your education plan for the year. Registration will be opening in the coming months for various institutes, and you don’t want to miss out on valuable learning opportunities! I’ve been trying to keep the blinders on while I’ve been doing ProGen, but this assignment has been a great opportunity to think about what’s next once I’m finished. Finishing the certificate program I started is definitely on my list, but Irish genealogical research is also calling my name…

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1.  ProGen Study Groups (https://progenstudygroups.com/ : accessed 25 January 2024).
2.  East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference (https://ecggc.org/ : accessed 25 January 2024).
3. Genealogy ConferenceKeeper.org (https://conferencekeeper.org/ : accessed 25 January 2024).
4. Jennifer Wiebe, “Education,” Jennealogie (https://jennealogie.com/category/education/ : accessed 25 January 2024).