This unit does not count toward the Sociology major. Students can take this unit as a student/degree elective or as part of the Criminology major.
Introduction
Forensic science is becoming an integral component of the criminal justice system. However, the role of forensic science in the criminal justice system is only now beginning to emerge as an area of research interest among criminologists.
This unit provides a survey and overview of the field of forensic investigation by examining the significance of forensic science in various stages of the criminal justice process; that is, from the crime scene to the courts. The unit covers topics such as crime scene investigation, forensic science, e-forensics, forensic interventions in social work and psychology, and the sociology of forensic studies. Discussion includes identification of diverse experts in the field, analysis of different notions of expertise and objectives, the role of forensic evidence in serious and volume crime (and in miscarriages of justice), forensic intelligence, forensics and human rights, and evaluation of media images of forensic work. The unit provides a general introduction to the history and development of forensic investigation, as well as specific approaches, perspectives and techniques within the broad field. The potential to develop a critical sociological/criminological approach to the role of forensic science in the criminal justice system will be explored.
Summary 2022
| Unit name | Forensic investigation |
|---|---|
| Unit code | HGA313 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| Faculty/School | College of Arts, Law and Education School of Social Sciences |
| Discipline | Sociology and Criminology |
| Coordinator | Dr. Loene Howes |
| Teaching staff | |
| Level | Advanced |
| Available as student elective? | Yes |
| Breadth Unit? | No |
Availability
Note
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TNE Program units special approval requirements.
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (see withdrawal dates explained for more information).
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the strengths and limitations of various forensic roles and techniques as applied in the criminal justice process.
- Explain some of the social processes that can impact the effective collection, analysis, and use of forensic science in the process from crime scene to court.
- Critically evaluate the use of forensic science in the criminal justice system.
- Develop an informed argument that is communicated clearly.
- Articulate your own position on key debates surrounding the use of forensic science in the criminal justice system.
Fees
Requisites
Prerequisites
25 points at introductory level in any discipline in any faculty
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Weekly Lecture (120 Minutes) Weekly Tutorials (60 minutes) |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Task 1: Major essay, 3000 words (40%) Task 2: Case or problem activated learning, 800 words (20%) Task 3: Tutorial attendance (10%) Task 4: Exam, four questions, including a compulsory first question on key concepts, 2 hours (30%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required | |
|---|---|
| Recommended |
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