From Results to Revelations: Making DNA Fun Again

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Course: 2025-03

From Results to Revelations: Making DNA Fun Again

Faculty:

Coordinator and Instructor: Blaine Bettinger, PhD, JD
Other Instructors: Paula Williams

Tuition:

Regular Price: $585.00
NGS Member Price: $550.00

Description:

This course focuses on bringing the FUN back into genetic genealogy! Sometimes DNA evidence can become tedious or even monotonous. Concepts of small segments, triangulation, and relationship prediction are vital to responsible use of DNA evidence, but they can be overwhelming. Over the course of this week, students will explore many topics in the world of genetic genealogy from a standpoint of fun and curiosity. Together we will explore the many entertaining and engaging aspects of genetic genealogy!

Student Prerequisites:

Students must have tested their DNA at least at AncestryDNA, and preferably with Heritage and Family Tree DNA as well (but not a prerequisite). Students should have explored their results prior to class, and have an introductory understanding of the company tools and offerings.

Important Notice Regarding Course Materials:

Although a traditional syllabus will be provided for this course, the syllabus is meant as an accompaniment and reference and thus will not follow the course exactly.

NOTE:
Sessions will be recorded and available through Friday, 11 July 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.

All times are listed in Eastern Time.
Live sessions may be subject to schedule adjustments by your course coordinator.

Day	Session	Time	Session Title	Description	Instructor
Monday 23 June	Intro	10:00 – 10:30 AM	Class Introductions and Course Requirements		Bettinger
	1	10:30 – 11:45 AM	Course Introduction and the History of Genetic Genealogy	Get ready for an exciting journey through the world of genetic genealogy! We’ll start by exploring the history of DNA testing and how it has revolutionized family history research. You’ll also get a sneak peek into what we’ll cover in this fun-filled week.	Bettinger
	2	Noon – 1:15 PM	The Y-DNA Quest: Tracing Your Surname’s Epic Tale	Embark on a quest to trace your paternal lineage with Y-DNA. Learn how this powerful tool can reveal your surname’s ancient origins and connect you to distant relatives. It’s a genealogical adventure that spans centuries!	Bettinger
	3	2:15 – 3:30 PM	mtDNA: The Maternal Lineage Treasure Hunt (Plus X-DNA!)	Dive into the treasure hunt of maternal ancestry with mtDNA and uncover the secrets of your maternal line. We’ll also explore the often-overlooked X-DNA and its unique inheritance patterns.	Bettinger
	4	3:45 PM – 5 PM	Meet your DNA Superpower: Using Autosomal DNA	Autosomal DNA is your genealogical superpower, revealing a wide-ranging view of your ancestry. In this session, we’ll explore how to harness this power to connect with cousins and trace your family lines. It’s the key to unlocking your genetic past!	Bettinger
Tuesday 24 June	5	10:30 – 11:45 AM	Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Behold the POWER of Shared Matching	Discover the magic of shared matching! This session will show you how to identify and leverage shared matches to piece together your family puzzle. It’s like playing matchmaker for your ancestors!	Bettinger
	6	Noon – 1:15 PM	Clustering & Organizing Your DNA Matches	Let’s bring order to your DNA chaos! Learn how to cluster and organize your DNA matches into meaningful groups that can help you solve genealogical mysteries	Bettinger
	7	2:15 – 3:30 PM	Fun With the Leeds Method	The Leeds Method is a colorful and fun way to organize your DNA matches. In this session, you’ll learn how to group your matches visually, making it easier to spot connections. It’s like painting a picture of your family history!	Bettinger
	8	3:45 PM – 5 PM	EXERCISE: Clustering & Organizing Part I	Put your newfound skills to the test with a hands-on exercise in clustering and organizing your DNA matches. This interactive session will give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a fun and practical way. By the end, you’ll be a clustering pro!	Bettinger
Wednesday 25 June	9	10:30 – 11:45 AM	Using Ethnicity for Fun!	Ethnicity estimates can be more than just a curiosity—they can be a fun part of your genealogical research! Learn how to use your ethnicity results to explore your heritage and make connections with others who share your ancestral roots. It’s a world tour of your DNA!	Bettinger
	10	Noon – 1:15 PM	Hey, DNA Traits Can be Cool!	Did you know your DNA can tell you more than just where your ancestors came from? Explore the cool traits and characteristics that your DNA reveals about you. This session is all about having fun with the quirky, fascinating details hidden in your genetic code.	Bettinger
	11	2:15 – 3:30 PM	DNA & Lineage Societies	Discover how DNA can help you join lineage societies. This session will show you how to use genetic evidence to support your membership applications. It’s a way to honor your ancestors and celebrate your heritage!	Bettinger
	12	3:45 PM – 5 PM	EXERCISE: Find Those Living People!	Now it’s time to dive into an exercise focused on finding living people using DNA. You’ll apply techniques from the previous session to identify and connect with living relatives. It’s a treasure hunt!	Bettinger
Thursday 26 June	13	10:30 – 11:45 AM	Cool Tools for DNA: Making Your Data Dance	Bring your DNA data to life with a variety of cool tools designed to enhance your research. From interactive charts to innovative analysis platforms, you’ll learn how to make your DNA data dance!	Williams
	14	Noon – 1:15 PM	Finding Living People & Building Trees	Genealogy isn’t just about the past—it’s also about the present! Learn how to use DNA to hunt down your DNA matches and build out your family tree. This session will guide you through the process of connecting with new family members and expanding your genealogical horizons.	Williams
	15	2:15 – 3:30 PM	Let Artificial Intelligence Do the Work!	Explore the cutting-edge world of artificial intelligence in genetic genealogy. Learn how AI is making DNA analysis faster, easier, and more accurate. This session is all about letting the machines do the heavy lifting so you can focus on the fun parts!	Bettinger
	16	3:45 PM – 5 PM	EXERCISE: Clustering & Organizing Part II	Revisit clustering and organizing with a second, more advanced exercise. This session will challenge you to refine your skills and apply new techniques to more complex DNA scenarios. It’s a great way to cement your knowledge and have fun with your data!	Bettinger
Friday 27 June	17	10:30 – 11:45 AM	DNA Ethics: Playing Fair with Family Secrets	Even in the world of DNA fun, it’s important to play fair. This session will explore the ethical considerations in genetic genealogy, including privacy concerns and handling unexpected discoveries. Learn how to navigate these issues with care and respect for all involved.	Bettinger
	18	Noon – 1:15 PM	The Future of DNA: Where Will the Fun Take Us Next?	Fasten your seatbelt for a thrilling look at the future of DNA in genealogy! We’ll explore emerging trends and technologies that are set to revolutionize the field. It’s an exciting conclusion that will leave you eager to continue your genetic journey.	Bettinger

Course: 2025-03