Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is taken over two successive semesters and parts 1 and 2 must be completed to fulfill the requirements of the unit. Students can commence the unit in either semester 1 or semester 2. Students learn the principles and practice of forensic anthropology by conducting independent research. The output of the latter will take the form of a professional report formatted to the exact requirements of medico-legal practice for submission in a court of law (scientific report). Students are required to search for, and interpret, relevant literature and may also involve the formulation of experimental objectives that are tested based on their development of an appropriate methodology. The unit facilitates an understanding of how to analyse, interpret and present findings in the context of their engagement as a Forensic Anthropologist.

Credit
12 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand chain of custody in the transfer of evidentary material into the forensic anthropology laboratory; (2) develop investigative skills in forensic anthropological casework; (3) search for and interpret scientific literature; (4) basic understanding of case-law relating to admission of scientific evidence; (5) analysis and interpretation of skeletal evidence; (6) design and undertake independent research relating to forensic anthropology/anatomy; (7) prepare a scientific report based on an anthropological analysis; and (8) practical experience in the management and handling of skeletal remain referred for forensic analysis.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research proposal and literature review; (2) research project (scientific paper format); and (3) scientific report (case analysis submitted to legal authority). Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Daniel Franklin
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
72580 Master of Forensic Anthropology
and Successful completion of
FNSC5627 Forensic Anthropology Professional Project Part 1
Advisable prior study
FNSC5612 Forensic Anthropology I—Introductory Theory and Method.
FNSC8516 Forensic Odontology and Introductory Osteology.
undergraduate units in Anatomy
Contact hours
by arrangement with supervisor—laboratory/practical work: 10 hours total per week
Texts

A detailed recommended reading list will be provided by the course coordinator.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.