Course Descriptions

Classes and Seminars

 

Open Help Workshop                                                           [NO charge if we can’t help you.]           Fee:  $5.00 

These workshops are for anyone.  Have questions about using your computer?  Just drop in (no advance registration required) and get one-on-one assistance with laptops, tablets, and smartphones.  Volunteers are available to help with a variety of questions such as: how to use Windows 10, photo management, computer apps, help with some hand-held devices, assistance with problems such as malware, virus protection, and a variety of other technical challenges.

Courses are based on Microsoft Windows 10 operating system, except the Android and Apple iOS classes. Classes are single sessions, two hours in length unless otherwise noted. Students may need an email account, ID & password. and a flash drive for some classes. Classroom laptops are provided, or students may bring personal devices.

Costs:         1 session/seminar = $10         2 sessions = $15         3 sessions = $20         4 sessions = $25

Windows Technology (PC Systems)

 


Getting Started with Internet
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req: Getting Started – Hands-On and Getting Started with Internet or equivalent

Instructors:      Alice Jones/ Jennie Gunther

This course is for users with at least an elementary computer experience. This class will introduce students to basic internet usage. Class exercises will teach participants effective searching, various settings and the fun of exploring.


PC – Getting Started with Email
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req: Getting Started – Hands-On or equivalent

Instructors:      Alice Jones/ Jennie Gunther

This course is for users with limited computer experience. This class will introduce students to sending and receiving email messages  and uploading/downloading attachments and photos.


Going Further with Your PC
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $25.00

4 sessions.         Pre-Req: Getting Started courses or equivalent.

Instructor:         Tom Ogburn

This course is for students who have basic experience using the mouse and keyboard.  Students will learn the basics of Windows 10:  how to use the different features and functions, how to enter/edit text, and how to save and retrieve data files.


File Explorer – Where’s My Stuff?
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $15.00

2 sessions.        Pre-Req: Going Further with Your PC or equivalent

Instructor:         Jennie Gunther

This course offers ways to manage data storage in files and folders.  Covers folder creation, structure, and organization using Windows File Explorer.


Windows 10 Tips & Techniques
(Advanced Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:   Experienced PC User.

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

This seminar will present some helpful tips and techniques for using Windows’ latest operating system. These techniques will guide the user to utilize Windows 10 more efficiently.


Introducing Windows 11
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $10

1 session.          Pre-Req:   Experienced PC User.

Instructor:       Tom Ogburn

The Windows Operating System is 35 years old. Windows 10 is 7 years old. Now Windows 11 is being introduced. So what is new in Windows 11? What new features and functions are being introduced? Can I use it – what are the requirements? How do I get Windows 11? All these questions and more will be addressed in this class.


Windows Backup
(Advanced Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:   Going Further with Your PC or equivalent.

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

Learn the importance of backing up your computer onto various storage devices. Students will learn how to automate regularly scheduled computer backups. Several methods of backing up data will be discussed.

Apps


Book Your Memories with Shutterfly
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $10

1 session.           Pre-Req:           Experienced PC user.

Instructor:       Nell Kilmartin

This abbreviated version of the Shutterfly class will be a short introduction to the storage and editing features of the Shutterfly App.


Create a Photo Book with Shutterfly
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $15.00

2 sessions.       Pre-Req: Experienced PC user.

Instructor:       Nell Kilmartin

This workshop will begin with a short introduction to the storage and editing features of the Shutterfly App followed by a step-by-step process of creating a multipage photo book.


Fun with Google Photos
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $15.00

2 sessions.        Pre-Req: Experienced PC user.

Instructor:        Nell Kilmartin

Google Photos is a basic organizing, editing, and sharing program which can be used on most devices. In this class, a PC will be used but some of the differences in using the App for mobile devices will also be mentioned..


Google Photos Overview
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $10.00

1 session.            Pre-Req:            Experienced PC user.

Instructor:        Nell Kilmartin

This seminar is a single-session condensed overview of the full Fun with Google Photos class and covers some of the same material: how to store, organize and share photos on a PC with a comparison to the App on a mobile device.

MS OFFICE


MS Office: Excel  Level 1 – Introduction
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.        Pre-req:    Experienced PC User

Instructor:     Will Barbee

This class starts with basic definitions of spreadsheets; continues with calculation examples and discusses formatting and using colors in cells.


MS Office: Excel  Level 2
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:   Excel Level 1 or experienced PC / Excel users.

Instructor:      Will Barbee

This class builds on the lessons in the Excel Level 1 class, adding more functions, how to find them, sorting data, drawing a graph, header/footer creation, and page-break previews.


MS Office: PowerPoint – An Introduction
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:  Experienced PC user.

Instructor:      Will Barbee

Learn basic presentation definitions and how to create the various page and slide types, and how to use transitions and other tips to produce effective presentations.


MS Office: Word Level 1 – Introduction
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:   Experienced PC user.

Instructor:      Will Barbee

This class gives an overview of text management using MS Word functions to create a document, including keying, font selection, numbered lists, spellcheck, page layout, using the Thesaurus, and inserting pictures and letters with envelopes.


MS Office: Word Level 2
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $10.00

1 session.           Pre-Req:  MS Word 1 or experienced PC users familiar with MS Word.

Instructor:       Will Barbee

This class builds on the lessons in the MS Word 1 — Introduction class. Using built-in styles, data tables, Table of Contents, Table of Figures, and other document tables.


MS Office: Word Level 3
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $10.00

1 session.           Pre-Req:  MS Word 2 or experienced PC users very familiar with MS Word.

Instructor:       Will Barbee

This class builds on the lessons in the MS Word 2 class. How to do 2-up columns, using Avery labels, how to track changes and Mail Merge.

Using the Internet


Chrome Tips and Tricks
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                    $10

2 hours.           Pre-Req:  None

Instructor:     Henry Spencer

Google Chrome is free and is the most widely used browser in the world. This class will discuss and demonstrate some of the most useful features of Chrome such as tabs, bookmarks, and extensions.


Cloud Computing – An Introduction
(Advanced Level)

Fee:                     $15.00

2 sessions.       Pre-Req:  None

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

Introduction to Cloud Computing is an overview of the basics of using the “Cloud” for data storage, document backup, and utilizing cloud-based applications. The first session is a general overview with discussion and Q/A and includes a demonstration of some cloud vendor services like Microsoft’s OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc. The second session involves class exercises.


Edge Tips and Tricks
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                    $10

2 hours.           Pre-Req:  None

Instructor:     Henry Spencer

Microsoft Edge is a free browser and is widely used by people around the world. It has many of the same features as Google’s Chrome browser and is similar in function to it. This class will discuss and demonstrate some of the most useful features of Edge such as tabs, favorites and extensions.


Finding Educational Resources on the Internet
(Basic Level)

Fee:                   $10.00

1 session         Pre-Req: None

Instructor:     Jennie Gunther

Want to learn something new? Need some “How to” instructions? Looking for guidance for that DIY project? Where do you look? “Who ya gonna call?” The answer is right at your fingertips – on your keyboard. Just go to the Internet and type into search your question. This session will show HOW to ask the question in the most efficient way to make your internet search more productive. The class will explore local educational opportunities, especially for senior adults.


Google Can Do That?
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $15.00

2 sessions.        Pre-Req: Going Further with Your PC or equivalent.

Instructor:       Alice Jones

Google is known primarily as a Search Engine, but it is way more than that. This class will cover more comprehensive ways of searching and using Maps and includes exercises to illustrate and use apps such as Photos, YouTube, Google Play, Contacts, Gmail, Calendar, and Google Drive, Docs, and Sheets.


Google Drive
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                      $10.00

2.5 hours.          Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:       Henry Spencer

Google Drive is Google’s cloud storage facility. This seminar will teach you how to use this popular capability to store your data for automatic backup, offload your hard drive; share data to collaborate with others, create and edit documents with Google’s free web apps such as Docs and Sheets and make data available anywhere.


Google – More Than a Search Engine
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:    Experience with internet browsing.

Instructor:       Alice Jones

When you have a question about something or want to learn more about it, you might say, “I’ll Google it”. But there’s more to Google than just Search capabilities – this seminar will introduce you to many of the other apps and functions that are part of Google.


Greetings: Send Free Online eCards
(Basic Level)

Fee:                      Free

1 session.           Pre-Req:  Basic computer/web browser experience

Instructor:       Alice Jones

Sending free e-cards is a great way to let friends and family know you’re thinking about them, whether they live next door or across the country. There are numerous sites where you can send an ecard.  This class will explore some sites and focus on those that allow you to send an ecard without having to create a user account.


Online Security
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10

1 session.         Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Henry Spencer

With all the data breaches that have occurred lately, this class on Online Security is more important than ever. The class will cover the types of “malware” that can threaten you and will tell you what you need to know to protect yourself and your data.


Password Management Apps
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10

1 session.         Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Randy Fowler

Online security and personal privacy are being hacked and attacked every day. This class will help you understand the importance of creating strong and secure passwords and finding and using safe and reliable password management tools to safeguard your data.


Sharpen Your Mind – Play Games
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10

2 hours.           Pre-Req:  None

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

This course will provide some suggestions, guidelines, and fun things to do to help you keep your mental sharpness as you age.  There will be some exciting discussions about mental sharpness as we age and along the way, you will learn fun things to do to stay mentally sharp.


Spider Solitaire
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     Free

1 session.         Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

Are you tired of playing Classic Solitaire – you know, the one you used to play with real cards? Spider Solitaire is different, yet with lots of similarities, like using the same cards and building a string of cards from Ace to King. There are new ways to build those strings with several levels of difficulty and challenges. Come and learn a new kind of Solitaire – You’ll have tons of FUN!


Sudoku – Learn to Solve the Puzzle
(Basic Level)

Fee:                      Free

1 session.           Pre-Req:  None

Instructor:       Tom Ogburn

What number goes where? And why does it go there? How do you know if it is right? This class will help you learn to solve Sudoku puzzles. If you are struggling with solving the puzzles this class will help you become a puzzle solver.


Travel Planning Using the Internet
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:  None

Instructor:      Alice Jones

Learn the basics of how to use the internet to plan your trips, vacations, and more – explore travel sites, research specialty trips, make travel arrangements, and explore tourist attractions.

Android Technology


Android:  Using Your Android Smartphone
(Basic Level)

Fee:                       $10.00

 1 session.          Pre-Req:   None

Instructors:      Tom Ogburn, Jesse Waters, Ed Campbell

Learn the basics of how to use your Android-based Smartphone. Understand settings for safe and efficient use. Learn the practical use of your phone’s applications (Apps).


Android: Smartphone Applications Workshop
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $10.00

1 session.           Pre-Req:   Using Your Android Smartphone or equivalent.

Instructors:      Tom Ogburn, Jesse Waters, Ed Campbell

Learn how to use the Play Store, find new applications, and download them to your Smartphone. Learn all the tricks to take good pictures. Learn the Map application and how to use your GPS – never get lost again! Many, many applications are available for your Smartphone. We will cover as many as we can.


Android: Smartphone Settings Workshop
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $10.00

1 session.           Pre-Req:   Using Your Android Smartphone or equivalent.

Instructors:      Tom Ogburn, Jesse Waters, Ed Campbell

Learn how to customize and personalize your Smartphone to meet your needs. Learn how to manage notifications and interruptions. Set up your Security management to protect your privacy. Learn how to extend the life of your Smartphone battery and much more.


Android: Using Your Android Tablet
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:  Using Your Android Smartphone or equivalent

Instructor:     Tom Ogburn

Need help getting your Android Tablet to work the way you would like? This Seminar will review the Tablet set-up options and operational considerations. Learn how to find, download, and set up the applications you want and need. Learn to enjoy your Android Tablet.


Android:  Tips & Tricks
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                       $10.00

1 session.           Pre-Req:   Using Your Android Smartphone or equivalent.

Instructors:      Tom Ogburn, Jesse Waters, Ed Campbell

Pre-Req. Using Your Android Smartphone or equivalent

Do you have questions about how to more effectively use your Android device?   Need some one-on-one assistance.  This class will feature some tips/tricks that you can use to make your Android experience easier. Quick little shortcuts that every user should know. Instructors will assist users with individual help and share Q&A time.  Whether you are a new user or an experienced user, you will learn something you didn’t know.

Apple Technology


iOS #1: iPad/iPhone – Introduction to the Basics

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

 This course will focus on mobile devices from Apple to illustrate their capabilities and underlying concepts.  In this course, you will be shown how to set up these devices and be provided with a brief overview of the many applications(apps) available including the “Find My” app. Be ready with your iPad and/or iPhone as well as your Apple ID and password.


iOS #2: iPhone: Getting to Know Your iPhone

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

This course will teach you how to get the most out of your Apple iPhone, including basic setup, making phone calls, and more advanced telephone features such as “Do Not Disturb” and, importantly, how to stop all those robocalls.  Bring your iPhone along as well as your Apple ID and password.


iOS #3: iPad/iPhone: Going Further with Built-in Apps

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:   iOS #1 Introduction to the Basics or iOS #2  Getting to Know Your iPhone classes, or an intermediate iOS user.

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

 Learn about the apps that were included with your iPhone/iPad; especially the Contacts, Calendar, Camera, Photos, and FaceTime Apps.  Advanced settings will also be covered. Either “iOS1 – The Basics” or “IOS2: Getting to Know Your iPhone” class is a prerequisite. Bring your iPad and or iPhone as well as your Apple ID and password


iOS #4: iPhone/iPad: Enhance with New Content

Fee:                   $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:    Either iOS#1 Introduction to the Basics or iOS#2 Getting to Know Your iPhone or Intermediate iOS user.

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

There are over 2 million apps available, over 26 million songs, and millions of books that you can get for your iPhone/iPad. Learn how to search and download some of this great content from the App Store, the iTunes Store, and the iBooks Store as well as how to check out eBooks from the Wake County Public Library. Bring your iPad and/or iPhone along as well as your Apple ID and password.


iOS #5: iPad: Introduction to iCloud

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:   iOS #1   Introduction to the Basics or iOS #2 Getting to Know Your iPhone

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

The iCloud service allows users to securely store personal computer files on Apple’s iCloud servers and access them from multiple devices. It also lets you sync multiple devices, including your iPad, iPhone, iPod, and PCs running Mac OS or Windows. Consider it a highly capable personal Internet hard drive! This class will show you how to set up an account and make the best use of the service. Bring your own iPad, iPhone, or iPad Touch, and your Apple ID and password.


iOS #6: iPhone/iPad: Getting to Know Siri

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:   Intermediate device user.

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

Siri is an Apple iPhone and iPad personal assistant app, using natural language to answer questions, make recommendations, and send requests to services such as OpenTable, Apple Maps, Settings, and more. This seminar will describe this technology and how to best use it.


iOS #7: Taking, Editing & Sharing your iPhone/iPad Photos

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:   iOS #1   Introduction to the Basics or iOS#2 Getting to Know Your iPhone or intermediate iOS user

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

Over 80% of all photos are taken on mobile devices. Most of those photos are still only on the device that was used to take them. This workshop will discuss the best way to take, edit, and share those digital photos from your iPad/iPhone. Bring your iPad/iPhone and learn how to take, edit, and share great photos.


iOS #8: Apple Watch

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:   Intermediate iOS user

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

Learn the basic functions of the latest personal technology from Apple as well as helpful tips and tricks! The course will also cover the new medical advances of the latest version which include a one-lead EKG and fall detection. Stay connected, stay safe!


iOS #9: iPhone Tips & Trick

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:   Intermediate iOS user

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

This class will feature 10 tips/tricks that you can use to make your iPhone experience easier. Quick little shortcuts that every iPhone user should know. Whether you are a new user or an experienced user, you will learn something you didn’t know.


iOS #10: Getting to Know Your iPad

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.          Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Duane Reaugh

This course will teach you how to get the most out of your Apple iPad, including basic setup, making phone calls, and more advanced settings and features. Also we will look at some Apps including Calendar, Camera, Photos, Face Time, and Maps. Bring your iPad along as well as your Apple ID and password.

Other Technology

 


Chromebook – Introduction
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Henry Spencer

Chromebooks are a newer choice for users who do not need all of a PC or Mac functionality.  If you just use a computer to surf the Web, do email, stream services such as Netflix, and do not need desktop software that you install on a computer such as Microsoft Office, or to store a lot of files on your computer, a Chromebook is a good choice for you.  Chromebooks are less expensive than PCs and Macs, easy to set up and use, and start up and shut down in seconds.  They are very secure with built-in security, so you won’t have to worry about getting viruses.  This seminar will discuss the basics of how to buy and use a Chromebook and will prepare users for a simpler, less expensive computing experience.


Cut The Cable – Save on HDTV
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

Cable TV costing too much? Not happy about your channel choices? This class will help you with your choices for TV without cable. This class will help you save money while enjoying all the programs you like to watch.


Everyday Uses for Artificial Intelligence (AI)
(Basic Level
)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:     Jeff Taylor

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been getting a lot of press lately. Some of the headlines are downright scary! So exactly what is AI? This presentation will describe AI, where it is being used, and most importantly, how will it affect you. This will include how you can use it to help you and also describe some concerns of which you should be aware.


Exploring Future Technologies Affecting Our Lives
(Intermediate Level
)

Fee:                   $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:     Tom Ogburn

Have you seen the TV ads for 5G and wondered what they were talking about? They tell us 5G is coming — we better get ready. What are we supposed to do? How about IoT? Haven’t heard much about that? It is an important part of modern technology coming with 5G. This seminar will leave you with a new appreciation of technology evolution over the next 5-10 years and how our technology lives may change.


History of Information and Computing
(Intermediate Level
)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:     Tom Ogburn

Today we take all our information technology processing abilities and instant access to information for granted. This ability has evolved over thousands of years. Papyrus and ink were discovered around 2500 BC and the next 4500 years were packed full of many exciting inventions, machines, processes, and technologies that bring us to today. In this seminar, you can take that exciting 4500-year trip in two hours and develop a deeper appreciation for what we have today.


Purchasing a New Computer
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None. This Workshop is open to anyone.

Instructor:    Will Barbee

There are so many details to consider when buying new technology – what type of device? How much memory?  What size screen?  This class will walk you through some of these choices to help you decide the best equipment for your needs and price range.

Security on Technical Devices 
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10

1.5 hours.           Pre-Req:  None

Instructors:       Henry Spencer & Randy Fowler

Using computing devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones are useful and necessary activities, but can also involve risks to these devices and your personal information.  This class defines the types of problems you can have and gives tips on keeping your computing hardware, software, and data safe.


Smart TV – Streaming,  Making it Work
(Basic Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

Instructor:      Tom Ogburn

The way we watch TV has changed a lot in the last few years.  Cable TV was a big change, but now that is going away and we have Smart TV’s and every programming option seems to be Streamed.   There can be many decisions associated with our ability to watch our programs.  This class will help you understand the options in selecting the best way for you to watch your programs.  This class will answer your questions – getting you back to enjoying watching your TV programs.


So You Want to Buy a New Computer?
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None. This Workshop is open to anyone.

Instructor:    Henry Spencer, Duane Reaugh

This class will discuss the options between a PC, Apple Mac, or a Google Chromebook computer including features, probable cost, pros/cons, etc. Desktop and laptop computers will be included.


Using Zoom as a Host/Presenter
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:    The workshop is open to anyone with basic computer/web browser experience

Instructor:     Tom Ogburn

Zoom is currently one of the more popular video conferencing tools.  This workshop will provide basic training to host Zoom presentations.  It will cover setting up a Zoom account, scheduling a meeting, sending out the Invite, including a sample template.  It will demonstrate how to manage attendees using various Zoom controls and features like – Waiting Room, Muting participants, etc. It will also demonstrate how to share information and screen displays.


Using Zoom as a Participant
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    Free

1 session.         Pre-Req:    The workshop is open to anyone with basic computer/web browser experience

Instructor:     TBD

Zoom is one of the more popular video conferencing tools. Video conferencing allows attendees from around the globe to see and talk to each other for meetings, classes, business, and family get-togethers. Whether you are using Zoom for online education or for chatting with friends, this workshop will teach participants about Zoom features: how to log into Zoom and explain on-screen controls to help users control their experience.


Workshop for Kindle Users
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:   None

RSTE volunteers will be providing individual help to those with technology questions or problems with the Kindle Reader. If there is a concern affecting multiple users we will have a group discussion. This class will cover the Kindle app on multiple device types.


Zoom Features – Improving and Having Fun with your Zoom Video Image
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    Free

1 session.        Pre-Req:  For Windows PCs only

Instructor:     TBD

Whether you use Zoom for adult activities or to chat with your grandkids, you will want to know all your options for enhancing your video image.  This course will introduce you to the value of a profile picture and to the use of virtual backgrounds, filters, and other Zoom image options.  There will also be general do’s and don’ts for managing your surroundings. This course is for PC users only. 

Genealogy Courses

This is a collection of Seminars & Workshops open to anyone.   Topics may range from hardware tools, internet databases (like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch), offline family tree apps (like FamilyTreeMaker and RootsMagic), research tips, finding aids, records, and much more. Students are encouraged to bring their own questions, family challenges, brick walls to class.  Students may select the sessions that are of most interest to them and are encouraged to bring a flash drive to classes to store digital handout versions and website search results.

Building Your Tree on Ancestry.com   
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                     $15.00

2 sessions        Pre-Req:  Knowledgeable computer user, experienced with Web browsing, and beginning or casual Ancestry.com users.

Instructor:      Henry Spencer

This class will teach you how to build your tree on the popular Ancestry.com website.  If you don’t already have an account at Ancestry.com, the instructor will explain how to get one.  Topics will include getting started, adding people with pictures and stories, researching using hints and searches, and using other genealogy resources such as Find A Grave.  Navigation of the Ancestry.com site will be explained as well as copying people from other trees, inviting people to see your tree and settings for the site

 

Making sense of your Ancestry DNA Test Results
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

2.5 hours.        Pre-Req:  Knowledgeable computer users, experienced with Web browsing.

Instructor:      Henry Spencer

This seminar is intended for students who have had their DNA tested by Ancestry.com. It will benefit students who either have an Ancestry tree linked to their test results or have just had their DNA test completed and do not yet have a tree. Users without a tree can view their DNA results without having to pay for an Ancestry subscription. Students who already have a tree on Ancestry will already have an account. Subjects of the seminar will cover ethnicity results, DNA match lists, and techniques to find matched people in those lists. The instructor will demonstrate. Q/A included in the class.


 Ancestry.com Workshop
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                     $10.00

2.5 hours.       Pre-Req:    Ancestry.com account and some experience (such as having a tree on Ancestry.com).   

Instructor:     Henry Spencer

This workshop is presented as a forum to promote best practices, address students’ questions, issues, problems, and/or suggestions about using the Ancestry.com website. Topics raised by students will be discussed in class.  The instructor will lead the class with a demonstration of students’ topics and/or the student can demonstrate. 


 Private Coaching on Ancestry.com
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                     $25.00

2 hours.        Pre-Req:    Knowledgeable computer user, experienced with Web browsing, and are beginning or casual Ancestry.com users.

Instructor:       Henry Spencer (Zoom only)

This will be a private 1-1 coaching session with the instructor of our Ancestry.com classes. After you sign up, the instructor will call you to arrange a date and time for the coaching session. You will be able to use your own tree if you have one. The instructor can optionally demonstrate additions and changes to your tree (with “editor” privilege for the instructor during the session and revoked after the session). If you do not already have a tree, the instructor will step you through starting it and show you how to get started building your own family tree. Meeting times on Zoom will be scheduled by the instructor.

 
Genealogy 101: Basic Genealogy Concepts
(Basic Level)

Fee:                   $10.00

1 session.        Pre-Req:    None.  The workshop is open to anyone who is interested in genealogy and family history. 

Instructor:      Jennie Gunther

This session introduces genealogy basic concepts:  how and where to start, basic recording forms, beginning the family tree, organizing manual and digital files, inventorying artifacts, local resources, and much, much more.


Organizing Your Genealogy “Stuff”
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

 1 session.        Pre-Req:   Basic Genealogy Concepts or equivalent experience. 

Instructor:     Jennie Gunther

This session will suggest various tools and techniques to help organize the digital and manual “pile” of information generated by genealogy research, including color-coding systems, numbering systems, file naming, basic recording forms, beginning the family tree, organizing manual and digital files, inventorying artifacts, local resources, and more.


Gen: Citing Your Sources
(Intermediate Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

 1 session.        Pre-Req:   Basic Genealogy Concepts or equivalent experience. 

Instructor:     Jennie Gunther

In real estate, it’s “Location – Location – Location”. In genealogy research, it’s “Documentation – Documentation – Documentation”. This workshop will describe what genealogy sources are, the need to cite the sources used as documentation for genealogy research, and how to properly format the various types of citations, including web-based sources.


One-on-One Genealogy Workshop
(Intermediate Level)

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Fee:                    $25.00

2 hrs.                 Pre-Req: Knowledgeable computer user, & internet browsing;   Any level experience with genealogy research            LIVE only

Instructor:     Jennie Gunther

This is a private 1-1 coaching session with one of our genealogy instructors. After you register, the instructor will call you to arrange a mutually agreeable date, time, and place for the session. Assistance can range from creating a family tree; adding to your current tree; organizing your materials and research; exploring the internet for records and other helpful resources – YOU design the content. If desired, the work session could include a small group of attendees (2-4) with similar genealogy experience and objectives.

Gen: Resources – Online and FREE
(Basic Level)

Fee:                    $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:    None.  

Instructor:      Jennie Gunther

There is a ton of genealogy-related resources available on the web.  The challenge is to find them.  This seminar reviews some of the more well-known, and not so well known, online resources available to researchers for FREE!  These are some favorites from personal discovery or shared by others. Genealogy is all about sharing knowledge.


Sense-ology – Sensory Prompts for Writing Your Family Story
(Basic Level)

Fee: $10.00

1 session.         Pre-Req:    None.  The workshop is open to anyone interested in genealogy and family history.

Instructor:      Jennie Gunther

Genealogists tell us to “write your family history so it isn’t forgotten.” But writing the STORY can be more challenging than just writing facts on paper. We want our story to be creative, to be interesting to others, especially future descendants. So how to start? This discussion will demonstrate using our own five senses to add sensory excitement to our family story, and trigger memories to record and share with future generations so they will know and relate to us, and their ancestors better. This is a SHARED discussion so bring in your own memories based on SIGHT – SMELL — SOUND – TASTE – TOUCH.