Students must obtain the approval of the Unit Coordinator prior to enrolling in this unit.
Introduction
Forensic science is an integral component of the criminal justice system with applications in investigations, intelligence, courts, and disaster victim identification. However, it has been the subject of international critiques and a factor in high-profile cases of wrongful conviction. This unit examines forensic science as the object of study from a critical social sciences perspective. It highlights some pervasive issues such as the development of forensic science and limited foundational research, the challenges of communication to non-scientists, and the potential human rights issues associated with ongoing scientific advancements. The unit examines innovative research and practice that can contribute to addressing these complex and nuanced issues. It considers the potential for, and next steps in, the development of a critical social science approach to the role of forensic science in and beyond the criminal justice system. It incorporates an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest and organisational relevance in more depth.
Summary
| Unit name | Foundations of Forensic Studies |
| Unit code | HSP503 |
| Credit points | 25 |
| College/School | Health School of Paramedicine and Public Safety |
| Discipline | Policing and Emergency Management |
| Coordinator | Doctor Loene Howes |
| Delivered By | |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Assess the strengths and weaknesses of diverse forensic disciplines, techniques and roles in the context of criminal investigations and court processes.
- Analyse the social processes involved in the collection, analysis and use of forensic traces from crime scenes to courts (i.e., the forensic process), including the investigative process.
- Critically evaluate and articulate your own position on key debates surrounding the use of forensic evidence in the criminal justice field.
- Communicate complex ideas in written and verbal forms.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Weekly lectures, 1.5 hours Weekly online discussions, 1 hour |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Discussion participation (10%)|Topic proposal (10%)|Topic outline essay (30%)|Essay (50%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Julian, R., Howes, L., & White, R. (2022). Critical forensic studies. Routledge. The UTAS Library provides this resource as an ebook. Where possible, it can be helpful to have a copy of the unit textbook on hand, as we will use it each week. Additional weekly readings are linked to the unit via the Reading List. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | Fraser, J. (2020). Forensic science: A very short introduction. Oxford. The above short book provides a helpful overview of various forensic science disciplines. The UTAS Library provides access to the 2010 version as an ebook. If possible, it would be helpful to have a copy of the 2010 or the 2020 edition on hand. Several additional recommended readings are available via the unit Reading List to help with assignments. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.