In this module students will study many of the scientific analytical techniques used in criminal investigation. Practical methods of evidence recovery and the theory underpinning analytical techniques are introduced through lectures and tutorials and the learning reinforced by using scenario themed practical sessions with forensic based themes. Topics covered will include; immunoassay, presumptive testing, sample preparation, chromatographic and spectroscopic methods of chemical analysis at a higher level of theory than encountered in Science For Justice (FORE40240).

Practical sessions provide the students with "hands on" experience, to support the theoretical principles of the techniques. Laboratory notebooks will be utilised to record information and data. Group work during practical sessions aims to develop interpersonal skills that become increasingly valuable through their degree and later for employment. The production of individual written laboratory reports allows the students the opportunity to interpret and process data derived from routine forensic analysis. To support the mathematical skills and learning outcomes a number of mathematical topics will be incorporated into the taught material including algebra, equation of a straight line, standard deviation, statistical terminology.

Interactive lectures (12 x 2h in Semester 2) will explain scientific concepts and instrumental techniques and their application.
Laboratory exercises (5 x 3h in Semester 2) will be run in small groups and will encourage group communication skills valuable for employment. Further support will be by means of tutorial sessions to encourage utilisation of the skills in handling, manipulation and interpretation of data (4 x 1h in Semester 2 )
The remaining 90 hours will involve directed reading, revision and production of laboratory reports. Non-contact independent study will involve preparation and production of laboratory reports and background reading to support understanding of the theory.

None

White, P. (ed.) (2010) Crime scene to court 3rd Edition. Royal society of Chemistry.
Jackson, A. and Jackson, J. (2011) Forensic Science 3rd Edition. Pearson and Prentice Hall.
Langford, A., Dean, J., Reed, R., Holmes, D., Weyers, J. And Jones, A. (2010) Practical Skills in Forensic
Science 2nd Edition. Pearson and Prentice Hall.

Rouessac, F. and Rouessac, A. (2007) Chemical Analysis: Modern Instrumentation Methods and Techniques. Wiley.

GCSE Chemistry Revision Guide: Coordination Group Publications, Cumbria (2011)

Appropriately equipped laboratory, and lecture room capacity for equipped with facilities for power point and other visual presentations, OHP and white board.
Blackboard VLE.

Summative Assessment:

1. COURSEWORK (REPORT) - Laboratory report (1500 words) submitted in Semester 2. This involves the production of an individual report based on the results gained during group practical work, covering learning outcomes 1 - 4 The report will involve some limited aspects of the theory covered in lectures. (weighted at 60% of module mark). This will be the final assessment.

2. WRITTEN EXAM (1 h) based on short and long answer questions to assess problem solving skills, applying application of theory learnt during lectures (learning outcome 1) 1 hour examination at the end of Semester 2 (weighted at 40%)


Formative Assessment:
Short tests (2 x 30 min) will be done in weeks 4 and 8 of lectures during Semester 2 to provide formative assessments. Students can also submit laboratory report(s) for formative feedback for the report writing. Formative feedback will also be provided via tutorials and practical sessions.

1. DEMONSTRATE A KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE APPLICATION AND OPERATION OF CURRENT ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES AND GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE WITH AN EMPHASIS ON FORENSIC INVESTIGATION.
(Application, Knowledge and Understanding, Learning).

2. WORK EFFECTIVELY AS PART OF A TEAM, MAKING CONTRIBUTIONS TO GROUP WORK.
(Communication, Knowledge and Understanding, Learning).

3. COMMUNICATE KNOWLEDGE IN THE FORM OF WRITTEN REPORTS, APPROPRIATELY INTERPRET ANALYSIS RESULTS, SHOWING UNDERSTANDING OF THEIR SIGNIFICANCE AND THE UNDERPINNING THEORY.
(Analysis, Application, Communication, Enquiry, Problem Solving).