FP1S002 - Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation 14 Aug 2023 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 2

Associated Module Information

Module Code: FP1S002
Module Title: Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Sciences
Faculty Sub Group: Analytical and Forensic Science
Module Leader: James McCormack
Module Team: Paul Jones, Hannah Seale, Rhian Kinsella, Peter Miedziak, Niamh Breslin
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake: 2027
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 4
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100388 - forensic science 101222 - crime scene investigation
HECOS Code Weighting: 50 50

Document Version Information

Version 2
Valid From 14 Aug 2023
Valid To 31 Aug 2028

Module Aims

  1. To gain an understanding of the principles of Crime Scene Investigation and the regulations, values and behaviours of a CSI in the UK.
  2. Develop practical skills in evidence recording and recovery.

In engaging with this module fully, students will achieve the following level appropriate Behaviour Domains of the USW Graduate attributes:

Commercial Awareness: Behaviours 1,2,3

Communication: Behaviour 1,3

Leadership: Behaviours 1,2,3

Innovation & Enterprise: Behaviours 1,2,3

Project Management: Behaviours 1,2

Digital Literacy: Behaviours 1,3

The Capabilities associated with these behaviours are found in the Graduate Attributes table at the end of the descriptor.

Content Summary

Introduction to Forensic Service Provision:

Understanding the hierarchy and roles of personnel.

Introduction to the values and behaviours required.

Introduction to the statutory regulations surrounding the role, including forensic regulation improvements.

Photography theory and basic skills, including:

Shutter speed and apertures.

Camera functions and applications.

Rules of framing and image capture.

Depth of field and exposure for crime scenes.

Introduction to forensic skills including: -

Fingerprint enhancement with powders.

Footwear development and recovery.

Trace evidence recovery.

Tool marks and casting techniques.

DNA recovery.

Principles of packaging.

Continuity and integrity.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 24
Practical classes and workshops 24
Independent Study 100
Directed Study 52
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Apply knowledge and practical skills to effectively demonstrate understanding of camera functions and techniques/skills in forensic practice in the field based upon Skills for Justice National Occupational Standards (NOS).
LO2 Demonstrate an understanding of the roles of forensic service provision, its governance, statutory regulations and ethical codes of conduct.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 Onsite practical competency. 0 N/A 100 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1

Reading List

Practical Skills In Forensic Science, Langford A 3rd Edition 2019

Forensic Science, Jackson & Jackson 4th Edition 2017

From Crime Scene to Court: The Essentials of Forensic Science White, 2nd Edition

The Forensic Casebook: The Science of Crime Scene Investigation, Genge 2004

Basic Crime Scene Photography Dutelle 2nd Edition 2015

Gov.uk Forensic Science Regulator