Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Analysis

University of Reading

Course Description

  • Course Name

    Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Analysis

  • Host University

    University of Reading

  • Location

    Reading, England

  • Area of Study

    Archaeology

  • Language Level

    Taught In English

  • Course Level Recommendations

    Upper

    ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

    Hours & Credits

  • ECTS Credits

    10
  • Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
    6
  • Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
    8

  • Overview

    Module Provider: Archaeology
    Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
    Level:5
    Terms in which taught: Spring term module
    Pre-requisites:
    Non-modular pre-requisites:
    Co-requisites:
    Modules excluded:
    Module version for: 2016/7
    Summary module description:
    The module will provide an introduction to the theoretical aspects, methodology and practical aspects of forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations.
    Aims:
    The module aims to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of the theoretical aspects, methodology and practical aspects of forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations. It will aim to demonstrate the scientific basis of each technique and its application to crime scene investigations and give some examples of how these have been used in archaeological investigations. The students will also obtain ?hands on? practical experience of investigating a mock crime scene taught by professional practitioners.
    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;
    ? To understand the role of the forensic archaeologist in modern crime scene investigations.
    ? To offer a critical understanding of the modern scientific evidence used in a forensic context;
    ? To understand the sources of uncertainty in forensic evidence and how it is portrayed in modern crime scene investigations.
    ? To understand the main sources of academic literature regarding forensic archaeology and crime scene investigations;
    ? To undertake practical investigation of a crime scene to apply the theoretical skills obtained throughout the course under the supervision of professional crime scene investigators;
    ? To explore a series of case studies of modern and historical investigations and the methodologies used.
    ? To 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 also encourages skills in problem-solving through the use of analytical techniques as well as ?hands on? practical experience. The students will also benefit from being taught by professional forensic practitioners which will offer real world experience and use up to date, modern policing examples of case studies. There will also be additional transferable skills engagement via the practical sessions where collecting, identifying and processing different sources of information in a group, compiling data and writing and an understanding of how to structure an argument incorporating scientific data in a forensic context as well as 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 wildlife crime investigation. A mock crime scene exercise will give students the opportunity to experience modern crime scene investigation under tutorage of forensic science practitioners.
    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    The module is taught in a series of illustrated lectures, discussions, practical sessions and group tutorials.
    Contact hours:
    Spring
    Lectures 16
    Tutorials 2
    Practicals classes and workshops 9
    Work-based learning
    Guided independent study 71
    Total hours by term 100
    Total hours for module 100
    Summative Assessment Methods:
    Method -Percentage
    Written exam 50
    Report 50
    Other information on summative assessment:
    Coursework
    One report up to 3000 words on a practical investigation (50%).
    Examination
    One seen and open book examination taken during the examination period (50%). The paper will be made available to those sitting the examination at least three days prior to the examination date. Students may bring into the examination papers, books and notes but no electronic devices.
    Requirements for a pass:
    An overall mark of 40%.
    Reassessment arrangements:
    Re-examination and/or re-submission of coursework in August/September
    Last updated: 8 October 2014

Course Disclaimer

Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.

Some courses may require additional fees.

Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.

ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits are converted to semester credits/quarter units differently among U.S. universities. Students should confirm the conversion scale used at their home university when determining credit transfer.

Please reference fall and spring course lists as not all courses are taught during both semesters.

Please note that some courses with locals have recommended prerequisite courses. It is the student's responsibility to consult any recommended prerequisites prior to enrolling in their course.

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