FP3S112 - Technical Forensic DNA Analysis and Interpretation 01 Sep 2023 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 3
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | FP3S112 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Technical Forensic DNA Analysis and Interpretation | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Sciences | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Analytical and Forensic Science | ||
| Module Leader: | Ella Mason-Buck | ||
| Module Team: | Hannah Seale, Peter Miedziak, Rhian Kinsella | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | 2027 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 6 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100386 - forensic biology | 100388 - forensic science | |
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 50 | 50 | |
Document Version Information
| Version | 3 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2023 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2028 |
Module Aims
- To provide an understanding of the application of molecular genetics in forensic science.
- To provide students with a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic DNA STR profiling, involving the processes required from the initial sampling of crime scene stains to obtaining a DNA STR profile for evidence in court.
In engaging with the module, students will fully achieve the following level-appropriate Behaviour Domains of the USW Graduate Attributes:
Commercial Awareness: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
Communication: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
Leadership: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
Innovation and Enterprise: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
Project Management: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
Digital Literacy: Behaviour 1, 2, 3
The Capabilities associated with these behaviours are found in the Graduate Attributes table at the end of the descriptor.
Content Summary
Exploration and discussion on how common?molecular techniques are applied within a given forensic context and its?possible outcomes.??
Human genetic variation and its uses in forensic science.??
Understanding population genetics and its link to Forensic human analysis (Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium, linkage, Random Match Probability)?
Ethical considerations in human genetics that are directly associated with?data derived from?Forensic DNA analysis and?entries in the?National DNA database.?
Discussing newly emerging techniques in the field such as DNA methylation and SCD.
Following the process?of evidence?from the collection of biological?material?in a crime scene, to the lab analysis and?to the court.??
Capillary electrophoresis theory and practice.??
Quantitation systems and their uses in Forensic DNA analysis.??
Interpretation and understanding of DNA profiles.?
Exploring the various implications on the interpretation of DNA profiles such as relatedness and sub populations.??
Understanding Y-STRs and mitochondrial DNA in forensic science including how information is interpreted.??
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 24 |
| Tutorial | 6 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 30 |
| Independent Study | 60 |
| Directed Study | 74 |
| Formative Assessment - Scheduled | 6 |
| Total Hours Selected | 200 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Appreciate the uses of modern gene technology and understand the use of human genomics |
| LO2 | Demonstrate a detailed understanding of forensic DNA profiling, including theoretical concepts and the procedural aspects of laboratory-based DNA profiling and profile interpretation |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Report 1 | Report based on a series of laboratory sessions being undertaken | 0 | 2000 | 50 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Presentation (Asynchronous) 1 | Critical analysis of existing work in challenging and emerging areas of Forensic DNA Analysis | 15 | N/A | 50 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Report 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Presentation (Asynchronous) 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |