AR2F17-Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Analysis

Module Provider: Archaeology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Mary Lewis
Email: m.e.lewis@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Through lectures, activities, videos and reading students will be able to understand the theory behind certain forensic and archaeological practices, when and why they are used, and shown the process by which these are undertaken.

Aims:

The module provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of the theoretical aspects, methodology and practical aspects of forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations. Through lectures, activities, videos and reading, students will be able to understand the theory behind certain forensic and archaeological practices, when and why they are used, and shown the process by which these are undertaken. The scientific basis of each technique and its application to crime scene investigations will be explored using examples of their application in archaeological investigations. The students will also obtain some practical experience of crime scene analysis through in-class and interactive activities. Ìý

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students should be familiar with different aspects of crime scene investigations and how the role of the forensic archaeologist fits into modern policing. Students should be able to:

• understand the basic scientific concepts of different areas of crime scene investigation;


• understand the role of the forensic archaeologist in modern crime scene investigations.


• offer a critical understanding of the modern s cientific evidence used in a forensic context;


• understand the sources of uncertainty in forensic evidence and how it is portrayed in modern crime scene investigations.


• understand the main sources of academic literature regarding forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations;


• understand how to undertake practical investigation of a crime scene and apply the theoretical skills obtained throughout the course in a crime scene scenario;


• explore a series of case studies of modern and historical investigations and the methodologies used.


• present data and findings from a practical investigation of a crime scene in the form of a modern expert witness report.

Additional outcomes:

The module also encourages skills in problem-solving using analytical techniques as well practical experience. The students will also benefit from being taught by professional forensic practitioners which will offer real world experience and use contemporary, modern policing examples of case studies. There will also be additional transferable skills engagement via the crime scene search and analysis report, expert witness statement task, and practical activities, where collecting, identifying and interpreting different sources of information, will enable students to compile and analyse data to construct a robust argument/case. Students will also develop their management of time to meet assignment deadlines.

Outline content:

The module will consider modern scientific techniques of crime scene investigation including DNA, material transfer, isotope provenancing, forensic archaeology and anthropology in the context of modern policing and crime investigation. Various crime scene exercises will give students the opportunity to experience techniques of modern crime scene investigation under tutorage of forensic science practitioners.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module is taught through a series of illustrated lectures, practical activities, and case study scenarios.