OGEN185 - Genealogical Practicum
Course Description
BU’s Genealogy Practicum combines two facets of learning: (1) course content focused on writing genealogical work products and (2) unique research cases spanning different geographic areas, time periods, and ethnicities. Guided by BU’s esteemed instructors, students will put their research skills into practice by working on five unique cases (10 days for each case) and will develop a specific written work product to showcase their work on each case.
On the opening day of each module, a live session will take place where the instructor introduces the research case and the parameters and guidelines for research. Students will be able to ask clarifying questions during the live session. Students are required to either attend the live session or watch the recording.
The instructional team provides written feedback to each student on the work product submitted, focusing on how they developed the work product. Students will learn more about the resolution to the case in a live classroom session on the final day of the module. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a letter of completion.
Curriculum
Module One: Research Planning
Learn how to approach a research problem by analyzing the starting point information, identifying available sources, and then developing a comprehensive research plan that identifies specific details about the sources to be searched.
Module Two: Research Logs
Learn to methodically record key information about the sources that have been examined, information extracted from those sources, and the analysis of that source in the context of the research question/goal of the case.
Module Three: Genealogical Compilations
Learn about genealogical compilations to organize familial relationships and document kinship within a family. Students will work on a case that involves research focused on placing individuals correctly within a family, and will develop a genealogical summary showing their work.
Module Four: Proof Discussions
Learn strategies for developing proof discussions, and conduct research on a case that requires the development of a proof argument to answer the research question.
Module Five: Research Reports
To wrap up the course, students will learn best practices for developing genealogical research reports, and will resolve a case by presenting their findings and conclusions in report format.
Recommended Time Commitment: 15-20 hours/week*
*This time commitment is based on individual knowledge and experience in the field.