6B083E - Forensic Casework and Expert Practice 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | 6B083E | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Forensic Casework and Expert Practice | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Module Leader: | Ella Mason-Buck | ||
| Module Team: | Peter Miedziak | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 30 | Credit Level: | 6 |
| 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
The main aims of the module are:
· Integrate scientific knowledge and analytical techniques from biological, chemical, and trace evidence disciplines to investigate, analyse, and interpret complex forensic case scenarios.
· Develop advanced professional competencies in the management, evaluation, and communication of forensic evidence, including the preparation and presentation of expert witness reports and testimony.
· Critically appraise the evidential, ethical, and legal implications of forensic findings, incorporating uncertainty, limitations, and professional judgment into investigative and legal decision-making.
Content Summary
This capstone module brings together the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout the forensic science programme through the investigation and evaluation of a simulated forensic case. You will apply analytical techniques from biological, chemical and trace evidence analysis to examine evidential materials, interpret findings and evaluate their significance within investigative and evidential contexts.
Working in simulated professional laboratory environments, you will undertake key stages of the forensic process, including evidence assessment, analytical testing, data interpretation and reporting. The module places strong emphasis on the critical evaluation of evidence, consideration of uncertainty and the integration of findings from multiple forensic disciplines.
You will also develop professional skills associated with forensic practice, including quality assurance, documentation and the clear communication of scientific findings. Throughout the module, you will be expected to work systematically, apply professional standards and reflect on the reliability and limitations of forensic evidence.
The module culminates in the preparation of expert witness reports and the presentation of expert testimony within a simulated legal setting. This will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to explain, justify and defend scientific conclusions clearly, objectively and professionally within a courtroom-style environment.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Practical classes and workshops | 56 |
| Guided Learning - Independent (Directed Reading, VLE Tasks) | 10.5 |
| Summative Assessment and Preparation | 60 |
| Independent Learning (Wider Reading, Research, Reflection, Consolidation) | 173.5 |
| Total Hours Selected | 300 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Critically analyse and integrate biological, chemical, and trace evidence to evaluate its significance and limitations in forensic case contexts. |
| LO2 | Communicate and justify forensic interpretations through professional written and oral formats, demonstrating scientific reasoning, evidential evaluation, and expert witness practice. |
Module Requisites
| Code | Title | Requisite Type |
|---|---|---|
| MOD014225 | Forensic Evidence in Practice | pre-requisite |
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Portfolio 1 | A group forensic case file with individual witness statement, Onsite, Group | 0 | 5400 | 60 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Individual Professional Discussions | Individual expert witness testimony, Onsite, Individual | 30 | N/A | 40 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Portfolio 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Individual Professional Discussions | ✔ | ✔ | |