Welcome to Education at PPGS

PPGS is striving to provide educational opportunities to members who wish to broaden their knowledge and skills in the areas of:

• Record types
• Specific geographical research areas
• Research methods
• Applications of DNA to genealogy
• Genealogy standards and best practices
• Genealogical writing

Few organizations can provide expertise in every possible area of interest to their members, so in additional to the classes and activities that PPGS will be offering, we will also try to provide information on classes, seminars, conferences, institutes, and other educational opportunities available outside of PPGS that may be of interest to our members. Note that these non-PPGS listing can't possibly be comprehensive due to the incredible amount of opportunities available. We will, therefore, be highlighting those likely to be of the broadest interest and/or general usefulness to the membership.

Click the Events menu item and filter with the Search field to see information on events in these categories:

• Conferences: Large educational events generally at the regional or national level
• Institutes: Intensive, usually week-long course tracks that deal in great depth on a set of specific topics that change from year to year.
• Local Classes & Events: Classes, seminars, and other special events in the area
• PPGS Classes & Events: Classes, seminars, and other special events offered by PPGS
• Seminars: Educational events that usually feature one speaker or a focused topic.

PPGS classes will fall into three general categories or a spectrum across these categories: Beginner, Advanced Beginner, and Intermediate/Advanced classes.

NOTE: Beginner level classes are open to the public but Advanced Beginner and Intermediate/Advanced classes are open to PPGS members only. For membership information, click Join.

PPGS offers the following general definitions of Beginner, Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced genealogists. When considering what level of genealogist you are, remember that it is likely that you will have most or all the skills for some levels plus a few from a higher level(s). This is normal as our experience grows. In general, think of yourself as being at the level which BEST describes your current skill set. While any member is welcome to take classes at any skill level, please keep in mind that the class instructor is not obligated to slow the class progress and/or back track to material that should already be understood for the class level to accommodate people with insufficient experience to be taking the class. But don't be afraid to give yourself a push; if you're a Beginner, consider taking an Advanced Beginner class or if you're an Advanced Beginner, consider taking an Intermediate/Advanced class.

• Beginner: No genealogical skills assumed.
• Advanced Beginner: Has basic knowledge and experience of building a pedigree. Has experience locating records both online and at archives such as libraries, courthouses, state or national facilities, etc. Understands the basics of using direct evidence (e.g., a birth certificate to establish an individual’s name, birth date and location, and parents).
• Intermediate: Has extensive knowledge and experience building pedigrees. Has extensive knowledge and experience locating records online and in archives. Is familiar with a range of record types. Has significant experience using direct evidence. Has some knowledge and experience using indirect and negative evidence. Is able to read and transcribe some original handwritten documents.
• Advanced: Has extensive knowledge and experience building pedigrees. Has extensive knowledge and experience locating records online and in archives. Is familiar with a broad range of records types and where they may be located. Has significant skill in using direct, indirect and negative evidence. Is able to read and transcribe most original handwritten documents. Has taken institute-level courses in one or more subject areas.