Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Medical and Health Sciences

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  Forensic Skills

• Unit Code

  SCH2143

• Year

  2019

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  2

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  

• Unit Coordinator

  Dr Jemma Ann BERRY

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Description

Working in the forensic field requires a high level of proficiency across several skill sets. This unit introduces techniques and theories considered essential for working in a forensic environment. The topics are introduced under four broad categories: crime scene techniques, basic forensic laboratory techniques, microbiological techniques and microscope techniques.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate compliance with laboratory safety policies, including safe weapons handling.
2. Apply appropriate laboratory protocols to the analysis of forensic specimens.
3. Apply scientific theory and knowledge to appropriately collect and analyse forensic samples.
4. Communicate forensic findings through evidence-based laboratory reports using scientific conventions.

Unit Content

1. Scientific communication.
2. Case studies and miscarriages of justice.
3. Firearms, ammunition and weapons handling.
4. Identification and individualisation of evidence.
5. Fingerprinting.
6. Microbiology and microscopy.
7. Blood composition and identification.
8. Forensic photography.
9. Crime scene processing.
10. Basic Forensic laboratory techniques

Learning Experience

Students will attend on campus classes as well as engage in learning activities through ECU Blackboard.

For more information see the Semester Timetable

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant Board of Examiners.

Due to the professional competency skill development associated with this Unit, student attendance/participation within listed in-class activities and/or online activities including discussion boards is compulsory. Students failing to meet participation standards as outlined in the unit plan may be awarded an I Grade (Fail - incomplete). Students who are unable to meet this requirement for medical or other reasons must seek the approval of the unit coordinator.

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