Active learning ideas
This topic examines the multidisciplinary teams required to move a case from a crime scene to a courtroom. Students explore the specific remits of Police Officers, Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs), Forensic Scientists, and Pathologists. Understanding these roles is vital for Year 13 students as they must evaluate the effectiveness of personnel in securing reliable evidence, a core requirement of the WJEC Level 3 Criminology specification.
Activity 01
Assign students roles as Senior Investigating Officers, CSIs, and Pathologists. Provide a crime scene brief and have them negotiate who takes priority at the scene to avoid cross-contamination while ensuring all evidence is captured.
What are the specific roles of forensic experts at a crime scene?
Activity 02
Set up four stations representing the Police, CSI, Lab, and Mortuary. At each station, groups must identify three specific limitations of that role, such as budget constraints or time-sensitive evidence degradation.
How do police coordinate with specialists during an investigation?
Activity 03
Provide students with a real-world case where an investigation failed, such as the Amanda Knox or Stephen Lawrence cases. Groups must pinpoint exactly which personnel failed in their duty and how it impacted the trial outcome.
What limitations do these personnel face in their day-to-day operations?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The 'CSI Effect' belief that one person does everything from interviewing suspects to DNA analysis.
In the UK system, roles are highly siloed to prevent bias and ensure expertise. Using a station rotation activity helps students see the physical and procedural distance between the police and the independent forensic laboratories.
Pathologists only determine the cause of death.
Pathologists also provide vital information on the time of death and the nature of the weapon used. Peer teaching sessions where students present on specific experts can help clarify these nuanced responsibilities.
Methods used in this brief
Investigative Techniques
A critical look at techniques such as forensic analysis, surveillance, profiling, and eyewitness testimony. Students will evaluate the reliability and legal boundaries of these methods.
8 methodologies
Processing Evidence and Suspect Rights
An overview of the rules of evidence collection, chain of custody, and the rights of suspects under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) 1984.
8 methodologies