Skills Workshop: Forensics

Catalog description

This skills course will integrate simulation learning with guided discussions on handling forensic and scientific evidence in litigation. The one credit course will be a comprehensive overview of various strategies to aid in both preparation and practice with forensic evidence and testimony. The three primary goals: (1) to expose students to the different types of forensic evidence used in court—fingerprint comparisons, DNA analysis, psychological examinations, ballistics, etc.—and to convey a sense of evidentiary effect; (2) to introduce students to the people who collect, analyze, and testify about forensic evidence; (3) to examine the developing hurdles that forensic evidence present to every practitioner on a practical level. No prior scientific background is required, students will be expected to become familiar with some of the basic science that underlies forensic evidence, e.g., the elements of basic ballistics, basic patterns that fingerprint analysts look for, mental health diagnosis. It is anticipated that guest speakers will enhance the learning process and participate in class simulation problems. Enrollment limited to 12 students.