5B100E - Forensic Evidence in Practice 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | 5B100E | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Forensic Evidence in Practice | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Module Leader: | |||
| Module Team: | Ella Mason-Buck, Peter Miedziak, Paul Jones, Rebecca Lakin, James McCormack | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 30 | Credit Level: | 5 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100388 - forensic science | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 0 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2027 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2033 |
Module Aims
· To develop your ability to apply scientific reasoning and evaluative approaches to the examination, interpretation, and communication of forensic evidence within investigative and legal contexts.
· To enhance your ability to critically evaluate the reliability, limitations, and evidential value of different types of forensic evidence while applying appropriate ethical, professional, and quality assurance principles.
· To build your practical, analytical, teamwork, and communication skills through case-based learning and forensic problem-solving activities to prepare you for advanced casework and professional forensic practice.
Content Summary
This module develops your understanding of how forensic evidence is identified, evaluated, interpreted, and communicated within real investigative and legal contexts. Building on foundational knowledge from Level 4, you will explore a wide range of forensic evidence types and investigative approaches, including bloodstain pattern analysis, trace evidence, marks and impressions, firearms, digital evidence, and forensic interpretation.
The module emphasises the scientific reasoning that underpins forensic practice, including Case Assessment and Interpretation (CAI), evaluative reporting, quality assurance, ethics, and the communication of uncertainty. You will critically examine the strengths and limitations of forensic evidence, the impact of cognitive bias, and the role forensic science can play in both successful investigations and miscarriages of justice.
Through practical exercises, case-based learning, and collaborative activities, you will develop skills in forensic reasoning, evidence evaluation, decision-making, and professional communication. The module prepares you for advanced Level 6 casework, research, and professional forensic practice by promoting critical thinking, teamwork, ethical conduct, and evidence-based approaches to forensic science.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Practical classes and workshops | 56 |
| Guided learning - Independent | 10.5 |
| Summative assessment and preparation | 60 |
| Independent learning | 173.5 |
| Total Hours Selected | 300 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Critically evaluate the collection, interpretation, and evidential value of forensic evidence using appropriate scientific reasoning, quality assurance principles, and evaluative approaches within investigative and legal contexts. |
| LO2 | Communicate forensic findings and justified conclusions effectively through the interpretation of case-based evidence, demonstrating awareness of ethical, professional, and procedural considerations relevant to forensic practice. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Practical Written Work 1 | Students prepare a formal witness statement based on an evidence type studied within the module (e.g. DNA, marks and impressions, BPA, trace evidence, or digital evidence). | 0 | 2000 | 70 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Professional Discussions 1 | Students undertake a 15-minute individual viva examination covering key topics from across the module. | 15 | N/A | 30 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Practical Written Work 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Professional Discussions 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |