The careful and considered collection of evidence from an incident scene along with the accurate and robust analysis of this evidence are the cornerstone of forensic science. But how do you decide upon the best ways to collect evidence, and which techniques to use, to assemble the best case with the evidence you have? In this practical and laboratory based module, you will develop advanced scene investigation and evidence collection skills before applying previously developed core chemical and forensic practical skills to broader and more real-life investigative scenarios. This will involve consideration of ballistic, digital and chemical evidence, using new and complementary analytical tools, techniques and instrumentation. You will also gain valuable experience in concisely summarising and reporting multiple types of data in styles appropriate to different disciplines within forensic science.
Lecture 1 hour, Practical 69 hours
2,000 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Investigation Assessment worth 30%.
1,500 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Digital Output worth 20%.
2,000 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Analytical Assessment worth 30%.
1,500 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Ballistics Laboratory Assessment worth 20%.
N/A Practical Comptency. Assessment Details: Laboratory Attendance worth Pass/Fail%. This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.
Reassessment Method: 100% Written Assessment (1,500 words).
* Students must repeat the module in attendance the following academic year if they fail the laboratory attendance Pass/Fail component. This is due to PSRB laboratory practical hours requirements.
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. Select appropriate techniques during the investigation of incident scenes and analysis of evidence in aid of evidence preservation, while employing suitable anti-contamination procedures.
2. Collaborate within investigative teams, making the most of the time and resources available to solve forensic problems.
3. Explain and deploy complementary techniques in analytical chemistry, ballistics or digital technology to examine varied types of evidence.
4. Analyse and interpret data from a range of practical techniques to make appropriate and evidnece-based conclusions and recommendations relating to a variety of forensic science scenarios.
5. Report on scene, numerical, chemical and digital data in a style appropriate to different disciplines within forensic science.
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