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
In this unit principles of scientific investigation are introduced including the scientific method, hypothesis formulation and testing, scientific proof and peer review. Advanced law of expert evidence both in Australia and internationally, and jury advocacy with expert evidence, are explored. Crime scene investigation, physical evidence collection and preservation, and other areas of forensic expertise are introduced. Presentation of evidence including chain of custody, expert testimony and forensic report writing are emphasised. Legal and forensic practitioners are involved in the delivery of the unit and case histories are used as illustrations. The unit is taught from first principles. Lectures followed by small group exercises allow students to apply their learning in realistic investigative scenarios. Videos, presentations by students and role play is also used to reinforce the key concepts.
- Credit
- 6 points
- Outcomes
Students are able to (1) evaluate, analyse and interpret evidence derived from a range of forensic disciplines; (2) take account of the practical issues involved in collecting and processing evidence; (3) apply the knowledge gained within a legal framework so as to problem solve and present a case within a forensic context; and (4) identify non-scientific approaches to forensic issues.
- Assessment
Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) student presentations of case studies, designed to assess research ability and the application of learning in an investigative context; (2) a major essay designed to assess research ability and critical/analytical skills; and (3) a two-hour examination, with short essay and problem-style questions. 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)
- Adjunct Associate Professor Judith Fordham
- Unit rules
- Advisable prior study
- experience as an investigator
or lawyer in criminal matters
- Contact hours
- lectures and seminars: 36 hours (over three weekends)
- Text
-
Gold, A. D. Expert Evidence in Criminal Law: the Scientific Approach, 2nd edn: The Federation Press 2009
- 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.
Face to face
Predominantly face-to-face. On campus attendance required to complete this unit. May have accompanying resources online.
Online flexible
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit is asynchronous delivery, with NO requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online timetabled
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit includes some synchronous components, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online Restricted
Not available for self-enrolment. Students access this mode by contacting their student office through AskUWA. 100% Online Unit.
NO campus face-to-face attendance. All study and assessment requirements are online only. Unit includes some timetabled activities, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times. In exceptional cases (noted in the Handbook) students may be required to participate in face-to-face laboratory classes when a return to UWA’s Crawley campus becomes possible in order to be awarded a final grade.
External
No attendance or regular contact is required, and all study requirements are completed either via correspondence and/or online submission.
Off-campus
Regular attendance is not required, but student attends the institution face to face on an agreed schedule for purposes of supervision and/or instruction.
Multi-mode
Multiple modes of delivery. Unit includes a mix of online and on-campus study requirements. On campus attendance for some activities is required to complete this unit.