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  of forensic and archaeological practices, when and why they are used, and the  process 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  students 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.  

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  contemporary policing case studies.  Additional transferable skills will be obtained  via 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.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	11
Practicals classes and workshops	11
Guided independent study:	78
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Report	70
Class test administered by School	30

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

One crime scene search and analysis report (70%)

Three online multiple-choice and/or short answer exams (30% total or 10% per exam)

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of coursework during the re-sit period (August-September) but it cannot carry more than a pass mark.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:  

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  

4) Printing and binding:  

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  

Last updated: 21 September 2023