Forensics
VTVLC Partnership
VTVLC Partnership
Forensic science is the use of science in legal investigations. Whether it’s a custody dispute, land-use dispute, or serial murderer, scientific characteristics of evidence are routinely used to support or negate legal claims in a courtroom. Further, scientific methods of evidence collection and analysis are vital for the decisions that judicial officers make every day. In this course, you will learn about how evidence is collected, analyzed, and presented in criminal and civil investigations. Core concepts of this course are as follows:
Evidence-based reasoning that supports critical thinking.
Cause/effect relationships that drive the use of forensics.
Sound scientific practices that lead to clear conclusions.
Scientific details that underlie forensic evidence.
Content:
Course Description (from Canvas Course)
Essential Questions:
What skills and work is done within forensic science?
How do I examine and investigate a crime scene?
How is diverse types of evidence like fingerprints, DNA, hair, and firearm markings analyzed, and how is this analysis used in crime investigation?
What role do human remains play in forensic analysis?
How is unique evidence from explosions and arson analyzed and used?
For information on essential skills and specific scientific content for each subject, see the "What will I learn?" document.
Assessment
Graded assessments will take many forms. Short and long-term projects, poster presentations, group activities including multi-component lab reports, and traditional tests and quizzes will be used. Students will show their learning through writing, drawing, oral communication, graphing, and multimedia representations including models, diagrams, and videos.
Grading
25%: Formative Assignments (readings, lab activities, question sheets)
75%: Summative Assignments (Module Quizzes, DBA, Discussion Contributions)
Expectations
See the detailed Syllabus for general policies including how to turn in work, homework procedures, and class rules.