The aim of the module is for students to critically analyse and present information. Students will learn how to interpret forensics data and present that data in a legal context. They will be required to actively participate in discussion groups and prepare and deliver oral and written presentations to encourage the development of critical analysis and presentation skills.They will also be required to prepare critical analyses of research data drawn from case studies and selected topical research papers.
Students will be expected to evaluate criminal evidence, apply a Bayesian evaluative approach and make good scientific judgements applying their acquired scientific knowledge and skills in a meaningful way. Trace evidence types wrt retention and persistence is further explored,
Scientific Writing and Information Literacy
Abstracting scientific papers. Report writing in academia and industry; Critical review of research papers. Evaluating information sources.
Scientific presentation
Written and oral presentation skills; Listing exhibits, of continuity, chain of custody.
Data evaluation and interpretation
Background information; Introduction to Bayesian and the evaluative approach, source or activity; Scaled conclusions of findings; Group discussions; Retentive properties of the various forms of trace evidence, Transfer and persistence experiments, background surveys. Further applications on data integrity to include digital forensics
Expert Testimony
Provide the student with the necessary scientific skills to be able to convey his/her scientific findings accurately. Evidence and court procedure, presentation of evidence in mock trial, cross Examination and visit to criminal courts.
Lecture-based instruction - Traditional Lectures; Small group work, Digital Learning
Individual learning - Small group work, Digital Learning
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 50 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |