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: 2023/4

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

Module Co-convenor: Dr Sophia Mills
Email: sophia.mills@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Through lectures and practical seminars, targeted reading and online resources students will be able to understand and engage with the theory behind a range Ìýof forensic and archaeological practices, when and why they are used, and the Ìýprocess by which these are undertaken.

Aims:

The module provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of the theory, methodology and practical aspects of forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations. Through attending and engaging with lectures, practicals, reading and online resources Ìýstudents will come to comprehend the theory and utility surrounding forensic and archaeological practices. . The scientific basis of each technique and its application to crime scene investigations will be explored using examples of their application in archaeological and modern investigations. 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 scientific 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 encourages skills in problem-solving using analytical techniques as well practical experience. The students will benefit from being taught by professional forensic practitioners which offers real world experience, as well as studying Ìýcontemporary policing case studies. ÌýAdditional transferable skills will be obtained Ìývia the crime scene search and analysis report, in-seminar group case study work , 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.