Module details for The Practices of Forensic Science

Description

You will learn how crimes are investigated from the moment of reporting through to the presentation of the evidence in court. Forensic investigation involves a wide range of disciplines and this module will give an introduction to some of these. A typical investigation involves not only physical and electronic evidence, but also statements from witnesses, suspects and victims. This requires cross discipline collaboration of professionals.

Aims

The aim of this Module is to introduce students to the wide range of transferrable skills employed in investigating criminal cases and to show the need for a holistic approach drawing from various disciplines

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module the student should be able to:

1.  To summarise the complexity of forensic investigations and the wide range of skills that may be required.

2.  To explain the complimentary nature of different disciplines and aspects of forensic investigation

Indicative Content

1 Crime Scene Investigation

How a crime scene is examined in the context of incomplete contextual information and to avoid loss or contamination of evidence and the maximising of the value of evidential material.

2 Forensic Biology

Examination and evidential value of body fluids, DNA, hairs and fibres.

3 Forensic Physical Evidence

Analysis for drugs, toxicological analysis, firearms, explosives, and trace evidence. Introduction to uncertainties in measurement.

4 Forensic Reasoning and Practice

An introduction to forensic problem solving, thinking styles, case assessment and interpretation.

Teaching and Learning Work Loads