“AI Basics: Full-text Search, Chatbots, and Ethics”
James Tanner
8 Nov 2025
Categories: IR, LDS
Talk Abstract:
This presentation provides an essential introduction to the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in genealogy, focusing on full-text search and AI chatbots. Learn how AI-powered handwriting recognition is revolutionizing family history research by making millions of handwritten records searchable, including those on FamilySearch.org and the 1950 U.S. Federal Census. Discover advanced search tips to maximize your results and find previously undiscovered documents about your ancestors. The guide also defines AI chatbots and lists popular examples. Finally, it highlights the Guiding Principles for Responsible AI in Genealogy, covering key ethical areas like Accuracy, Disclosure, and Privacy.
Speaker Bio:
James has over 40 years of experience in genealogical research and is an avid blogger of the Genealogy’s Star blog. He has served as a family history volunteer for over 18 years and has presented at expos and conferences around the US, Canada, and Europe. He is a member of the board of directors of the Family History Guide Association and is currently serving at the BYU Family History Library. James is an attorney, a professional photographer, and has 7 children, 34 grandchildren and 2 greatgrandchildren.
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NOTICE:
This presentation is part of a set of over 400 presentations on genealogy and family history produced by "UVTAGG: The Utah Valley Technology and Genealogy Group".
For full details and to join, see the website https://uvtagg.org.