Do You Have a Genealogy Learning Plan?

It is a relief to hear that everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects.
                -----Irma Rombauer 1936 Edition of  The Joy of Cooking

Teachers create learning plans for the school year. These plans includes all of the activities that students are going to participate in and accomplish in various subjects. The purpose of the plan is to give some structure but also help track progress.

It is my belief  that genealogy requires lifelong learning. Between the technological advancements and the multitude of resources that can help your research, genealogy is a pursuit that requires constant learning. We are lucky in that there are many ways to pursue this learning including books, magazines, newsletters, online classes (both free and fee based), conferences, workshops and genealogy societies.

So what's on your genealogical learning plan this year?  As you plan out what you will learn think about what your skills are and how they need improving. Consider what your brick walls are and what would help you break them down. Is there research you haven't tackled because you are unsure how to start researching in a foreign country? Even if you think you are an advanced researcher, life-long learning is essential.

My plan in 2010 included attending conferences, using my mp3 player to listen to podcasts and conference talks, and reading books, newsletters, journals and magazines. As you think about your genealogical goals for 2011 don't forget to include your continuing education.

Here are just a few suggestions to consider.  This is not an exhaustive list.

FamilySearch Online Classes

Genealogy Podcasts

National Genealogical Society

Federation of Genealogical Society

Family History Expos

BYU Genealogy Conferences

Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy

Genealogy Books on WorldCat

JAMB recordings from Genealogy Conferences