Forensic Anthropology as Expert Evidence module (CA51013)

Learn ethical and legal responsibilities of forensic anthropologists as expert witnesses. You will learn the skills to communicate science for court

Credits

20

Module code

CA51013

Covering the role of the expert witness in relation to more specialised skills such as forensic anatomy, trauma analysis and age estimation in the living this module will cover the skills required to present your analyses in a court of law.

Forensic anthropologists can act as expert witnesses in a court of law.

This module covers the ethical responsibilities of forensic specialists as expert witnesses. It introduces the legal and procedural guidelines and case law relevant to expert evidence. You will also learn the importance of communicating forensic science to non-scientists.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

  • learn how to interpret and present principles of forensic anthropology in court
  • learn about the legal and procedural guidelines that must be followed during a forensic investigation
  • explore the role of the expert witness
  • learn the methods involved in the introduction of expert witness testimony to court

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • communicate forensic science to a wider public audience
  • use the internet to source legislation and case law
  • clearly present scientific information through oral and written communications and digital media

Assignments / assessment

  • coursework (60%)
  • expert witness skeletal analysis report (40%)

This modules does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

  • online learning resources
  • lectures
  • workshops

Courses

This module is available on following courses: