Hobart, Online
Students must obtain the approval of the Unit Coordinator prior to enrolling in this unit.
Introduction
This unit provides a survey and overview of interventions in the field of forensic studies. 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, 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 studies, as well specific approaches, perspectives and techniques within the broad field.
Summary 2023
Unit name | Foundations of Forensic Studies |
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Unit code | HSP503 |
Credit points | 25 |
Faculty/School | College of Arts, Law and Education School of Social Sciences |
Discipline | Policing and Emergency Management |
Coordinator | Dr. Loene Howes |
Teaching staff | |
Level | Postgraduate |
Available as student elective? | No |
Breadth Unit? | No |
Availability
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Special approval is required for enrolment into TNE Program units.
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
- An advanced understanding of the social processes involved in the collection, analysis and use of forensic evidence from crime scenes to courts (i.e. the forensic process), including the critical decision-making points.
- An advanced understanding of the diversity of forensic techniques and forensic roles, and the associated complexities, involved in forensic-led criminal investigations.
- A critical understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of forensic evidence in criminal investigations and court processes.
- An ability to communicate complex ideas in written and verbal form.
- An ability to critically evaluate and articulate your own position on key debates surrounding the use of forensic evidence in the criminal justice field.
Fees
Requisites
Prerequisites
Co-requisites
Mutual Exclusions
You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:
Teaching
Teaching Pattern | Weekly lecture (1.5 hours) |
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Assessment | Task 1: Topic proposal, 200 words (10%) Task 2: Tutorial discussion participation (10%) Task 3: Topic outline essay, 1500 words (30%) Task 4: Major essay, 5000 words (50%) |
Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
Required | Information about any textbook requirements will be available from mid November. |
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Recommended |
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