Thank you for registering for the online course, Making Connections: Interpreting DNA Test Results!
Advances in DNA have had huge implications for the field of genealogy and with the rise in popularity of commercial testing, the possibilities of connecting with previously unknown relatives is greater than ever. But how do you leverage your results in your family history research? Whether you’re new to DNA testing or you have already taken a DNA test(s), this course will provide you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to interpret your results, make important genealogical connections, and take your family history research to the next level.
This course includes five 90-minute classes, Q&A with instructors, and exclusive access to handouts and recordings of each presentation.
COURSE SCHEDULE
January 29 - Class 1: Navigating Your Results, Presented by Melanie McComb
Learn how to utilize the basic and—enhanced—tools found on the leading testing sites.
February 5 - Class 2: Taking the Next Step, Presented by Christopher Child
Going beyond the tools on the testing site, learn how to identify the relationship and most recent common ancestor, gain tips for reaching out to other test takers, and gain important strategies for piecing together these connections.
February 12 - Class 3: Getting the Most from Online DNA Tools, Presented by Melanie McComb
There are several online tools that can help you manage your DNA results and increase your potential matches. Learn how to utilize GEDmatch, DNA Painter, and AncesTrees in your DNA study!
February 19 - Class 4: Understanding Unexpected Results, Presented by Christopher Child
Unexpected DNA results occur somewhat frequently. Before you jump to an incorrect conclusion, learn how to spot these results, determine all possible connections, and develop a plan of action.
February 26 - Class 5: Testing Your Knowledge: DNA Case Studies, Presented by Christopher Child
Our final class will use real-world examples to show you how to apply what we’ve learned and develop appropriate conclusions.
COURSE HANDOUTS
Class 1 Handout
Class 1 Slides (Large)
Class 1 Slides Worksheet
Resources Shared in Live Chat
Class 2 Handout
Class 2 Slides (Large)
Class 2 Slides Worksheet
Class 3 Handout
Class 3 Slides (Large)
Class 3 Slides Worksheet
Class 4 Handout
Class 4 Slides (Large)
Class 4 Slides Worksheet
Class 5 Handout
Class 5 Slides (Large)
Class 5 Slides Worksheet
RECORDED PRESENTATIONS
Class 1: Navigating Your Results
Original broadcast: 01/29/2025
Presented by Melanie McComb
Running time: 1:46:45
Class 2: Taking the Next Steps
Original broadcast: 02/05/2025
Presented by Christopher C. Child
Running time: 1:45:28
Class 3: Getting the Most from Online DNA Tools
Original broadcast: 02/13/2025
Presented by Melanie McComb
Running time: 1:21:48
Class 4: Understanding Unexpected Results
Original broadcast: 02/29/2025
Presented by Christopher C. Child
Running time: 1:24:44
Class 5: Testing Your Knowledge: DNA Case Studies
Original broadcast: 02/26/2025
Presented by Christopher C. Child
Running time: 1:22:30
INSTRUCTOR BIOS
Christopher C. Child, Senior Genealogist of the Newbury Street Press has worked for various departments at American Ancestors since 1997 and became a full-time employee in July 2003. He has been a member of American Ancestors since the age of eleven. He has written several articles in American Ancestors, The New England Historical and Genealogical Register, and The Mayflower Descendant. He is the co-editor of The Ancestry of Catherine Middleton (American Ancestors, 2011), co-author of The Descendants of Judge John Lowell of Newburyport, Massachusetts (Newbury Street Press, 2011) and Ancestors and Descendants of George Rufus and Alice Nelson Pratt (Newbury Street Press, 2013), and author of The Nelson Family of Rowley, Massachusetts (Newbury Street Press, 2014). Chris holds a B.A. in history from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. His areas of expertise include: Southern New England, especially Connecticut; New York; ancestry of notable figures, especially presidents; genetics and genealogy; African-American and Native-American genealogy, 19th- and 20th-Century research, westward migrations out of New England, and applying to hereditary societies.
Melanie McComb, Senior Genealogist assists library visitors, both on-site and online, with their family history research. She is an international lecturer who teaches on a variety of topics. Melanie holds a B.S. degree from the State University of New York at Oswego. She previously served as the social media coordinator for the NextGen Genealogy Network, a non-profit that creates a community for younger genealogists, where she managed the Facebook and Twitter accounts. She continues her interest in helping younger genealogists get involved at American Ancestors by assisting with educational programs from local schools, scout groups, and universities. Areas of expertise: Irish genealogy, DNA, Atlantic Canada, Jewish genealogy, and military records.
OTHER RESOURCES
Subject Guide: DNA and Genealogy
Archived Webinar: GEDmatch.com: Taking Your DNA Results to the Next Level!
Archived Webinar: GEDmatch, Features Every Genealogist Needs to Understand and Use
Archived Author Event: Libby Copeland with The Lost Family: How DNA Testing is Upending Who We Are