BE5066 - Criminalistics II (2022/23)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2022/23 | ||||||||||||
| Module title | Criminalistics II | ||||||||||||
| Module level | Intermediate (05) | ||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||||
| School | School of Human Sciences | ||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||||
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| Running in 2022/23(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module aims to explore further the themes and concepts introduced in Criminalistics I. Areas of study will include marks and impression evidence and microbial forensics.
Students will develop communication and technical skills necessary for forensic scientists and they will be able to distinguish between the defined areas of criminalistics through case studies and practical work.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the application of personal responsibility and decision-making.
Prior learning requirements
BE5065 Criminalistics I
Syllabus
Marks and impression evidence e.g. footwear marks and fingerprints.
Crime scene processing
DNA profiling
Microbial forensics LO1- 3
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The module is delivered via lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical sessions (39 hours). Tutorials will allow informal-teacher led discussions of the issues raised in the lectures and are also used to allow practice in the key skills of communication, interpretation and analysis through case studies. Practical sessions are designed to allow the students to put the theory from lectures into practice utilising real-time experimental techniques and scenarios. The remainder of the time allocated will be used for self-directed learning. Students will be expected to reflect upon taught material in order to demonstrate their understanding of the aspects of forensic science covered in this module.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the collection, preservation, analysis and
interpretation of evidence types and communicate effectively in good written and spoken English using scientific and non-scientific terminology.
2. Show an understanding of how microorganisms could be used to cause potential harm.
3. Display knowledge and understanding of the main methods used in marks and impression evidence.
Assessment strategy
The module will be assessed summatively by means of coursework component of a crime scene practical portfolio (the components of which provide formative feedback) and by an end-of-term examination.
To pass the module, students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 40%. There will be an attendance requirement for the practical sessions. If the module is passed on reassessment, then the maximum mark awarded will be 40%.