Can you resist a good research discovery?

Decision making lies at the heart of every genealogical process: which record set to look at, how to search, and how to interpret what we find – a delicate dance between the joy of discovery and the battle with biases as we judge the evidence before us.

Through questions, short tasks and discussion in this interactive workshop, we’ll… 

• look at how we make decisions in family history research;
• hunt down the genealogical marshmallows in our work - the points where the tempting promise of a new discovery might sway our judgment;
• identify common cognitive biases, explore how they can influence us and how we might combat them;
• revitalise our genealogical thinking for the digital age!

When is the Masterclass taking place?

It will take place on Zoom, 1-3pm on Friday 14th February 2025. The session will be recorded and the recordings will be made available for you to view as many times as you wish for 1 month after the course completion (ie until 17th March 2025).

Any queries about the Masterclass, please contact [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you.

About the speaker

From DNA to historical maps, from research methods to historical occupations, Dr. Sophie Kay is a professional genealogist and geneticist at Khronicle® (www.khronicle.co.uk) who loves all manner of family history research challenges.

She’s the Ancestry and Genealogy Expert for popular archaeology show, Time Team, and the specialist DNA Tutor for the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies, where she leads their Certificate qualifications in genetic genealogy. She’s a Member of AGRA, a UK organisation of professional genealogists, and also specialises in research methodology and historical maps.

Sophie’s family history blog can be found at The Parchment Rustler (www.parchmentrustler.com), where she shares tips, tricks and strategies for making the most of your ancestral research journey.