Study Groups to Help You Master Genealogical Proof
GenProof Study Groups Are . . .
GenProof Study Groups are based on the book Mastering Genealogical Proof by Thomas W. Jones. The program is a guided study program supported by material in the book, discussions with peers, and the leadership of an experienced mentor. During the program you will learn how to apply the steps of the research process to meet the Genealogical Proof Standard in your completed work. You will learn methods for effective research planning, conducting reasonably exhaustive research, analyzing documents, correlating and assembling evidence, citing your sources, and writing different types of proof. Additionally, this is a great opportunity to network and meet peers in similar stages of their educational journey.
The Study Groups Add Value by Providing:
• A framework for studying the book
• Additional exercises to reinforce the concepts
• A mentor to guide the group and answer questions
• Focused questions to discuss within the peer group
This is an intense and condensed study program. Participants must dedicate 10-15 hours per week (up to 60 hours a month) for its successful completion. The study group requires in-person attendance and does not provide recordings. Missed meetings result in the completion certificate not being awarded.
The GenProof Study Group provides an opportunity for participants to study the chapters in Mastering Genealogical Proof by Thomas W. Jones. Participants read each chapter and complete the exercises in the book, then meet with other genealogists to discuss the concepts. Mentors volunteer their time to host the group discussions and answer questions on the topics. Mentors are not paid and therefore do not grade assignments. They may choose to give feedback as their time allows.
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Susan VH Fabian
Smithsburg, MD - GenProof 71
I hadn’t felt confident in my mastery of the GPS standards and wanted to delve deeper into the subject. GenProof helped me do that. The weekly reading and assignments developed my skills, and the weekly Zoom meeting gave me the ability to learn from a pro and ask questions, so I really understood the subjects. I learned so much in those eight weeks and have seen a big improvement in my research and writing skills.Becky Stephens
Dallas, TX - GenProof 57
“I have a deeper understanding of how to use the Genealogical Proof Standard in my research and writing because of GenProof 57. This course showed me how to enhance my research and analysis then brought my writing to a higher level of professionalism. GenProof is a course for any genealogist who wants to propel their research and writing to a higher standard.”Eileen Rhine
Santa Fe, NM - GenProof 60
“I found the GenProof Study Groups program to be a great resource, both for learning and for connecting with other genealogists. I had owned the book Mastering Genealogical Proof for several years and had attempted to work through it once or twice on my own. GenProof provided the impetus I needed to get it done. Getting to know colleagues is a bonus!”Christine De Angelis
Houston, TX - GenProof 69
“Going through GenProof will force you to see your weaknesses. I started off strong, but by the end of the class, I had fallen behind. Most enlightening was that I realized I was not quite ready to move forward with ProGen or certification just yet: I needed to do more actual genealogy. As much as I love learning, GenProof made me reevaluate the coming year and dedicate it to ‘doing genealogy.’”Julie Walker
Helena, MT - GenProof 61
“It’s one thing to read the elements of the Genealogical Proof Standard, and another thing to understand and apply them to your genealogy work products. The GenProof Study Group provides an opportunity to identify your current skill level, immerse yourself in fully understanding each standard, conduct evidence analysis, dissect sources, identify and resolve conflicts, and apply those skills to writing a proof argument. The GenProof study group was an invaluable deep dive into the heart and soul of quality and credibility in the professional genealogy field.”David Grawrock
Ivins, UT - GenProof 53
“GenProof was an amazing learning experience. The content is outstanding but even better was the peer reviews that drove the class. Our group still meets about once per month as the feedback and experiences were so valuable. The class will make you think and really help you fine tune how citations and proofs fit together.”Susan Schuler
New Port Richey, FL - GenProof 66
“GenProof was an important step in my genealogical education. The assignments were thought-provoking and helped me to truly stretch my genealogical muscles. Research can be such a solitary activity, it was wonderful to be part of such a smart, supportive group.”