Demystifying DNA for Family Historians (250)

DNA testing is becoming an increasingly popular tool in genealogical research and has the potential to solve mysteries and brick walls, where other records do not survive. The more its popularity rises and the number tested increases, the greater the chance of success. However, with so many tests available and so many companies to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.

This introduction to DNA testing starts at the beginning, providing you with the tools to understand and demystify DNA testing for use in your own research. You will be guided through what to consider before testing, the different types of DNA, who can test and which test is the most appropriate in different circumstances. You will learn about how DNA is passed down the generations and why this is important and how much you really can rely on 'ethnicity estimates'.

You will work with examples of real data and have the opportunity to work through techniques with your own results (if you have tested already). At the end of the course you will have a toolbox of techniques to interpret your DNA matches with increased confidence.

The course is suitable both for absolute beginners and those who have taken a test and are beginning to decipher their results.

There are five lessons, one per week, covering the following topics:

• * Introduction to DNA Testing and 'Ethnicity' Estimates
• * Y-DNA testing and Surname Projects
• * Autosomal DNA testing
• * mtDNA and X-DNA
• * Taking things further with autosomal DNA

Each lesson includes exercises and activities; a minimum of 1 one-hour chat session per week. See How the Courses Work.

STUDENTS SAID: "Karen is an excellent tutor, explaining everything clearly. The course notes are full of information with links to websites, books etc that will be useful in the future."

"Karen 'demystified' the science-speak and with the clear notes and charts, I now feel I have a good understanding of the area."

"As a complete novice who has not done a test I feel that this course gave me a good understanding of the types of DNA, how they are inherited and how the results can be used. I really enjoyed it."

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