LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY Course Specification template

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1 LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY Course Specification template The University s course specification template has been developed to fulfil three main functions; it shall act: as a source of information for students and prospective students seeking an understanding of a course and as a basis for gaining feedback on the extent to which the opportunities for learning were successful in promoting the intended outcomes to ensure that there is clarity concerning the aims and intended learning outcomes for the course for the University during the approval and periodic review process to provide information for external examiners, professional, statutory and regulatory bodies and employers as to the skills and other transferable abilities developed by the course Section One: ABOUT THE COURSE 1 Name of course and highest award Crime Scene and Foundation Degree Forensic Investigation 2 Level of highest award (according to Level 5 (UG) FHEQ) 3 Possible Interim Awards Level 4 (Certificate of Higher Education) 4 Awarding/validating institution London Metropolitan University 5 Teaching institution(s) City and Islington College 6 Total credit for course (for highest award) Faculty responsible Life Sciences and Computing 8 Mode of attendance Autumn start Full Time Spring start N/A Other N/A 9 About the course and its strategy towards teaching and learning and towards blended learning. Please include details of access to learning facilities, including flexible/openlearning spaces within the Faculty. The course aims to develop the students knowledge and understanding of core and applied science in relation to forensic science. The principal aim for all awards in this pathway is to educate students, from a wide variety of backgrounds, to their full potential. The development of potential is viewed as comprising both subject-specific knowledge, as well as a range of transferable skills. Subject specific knowledge comprises an initial grounding, at Level 4, in natural sciences, chemical and biological analysis and key principles of forensic investigation techniques. At both level 4 and 5, the course structure provides students with a general coverage of those aspects of crime scene and forensic investigation that can be directly rooted in the natural sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, criminology and criminal law. The element of crime scene investigation is addressed throughout all modules in levels 4 and 5 with relevant application in the necessary vocational context. The course provides appropriate preparation for direct employment in forensic and forensic related areas, forensic science. The programme provides a sound grounding in scientific knowledge sufficient for professional work in forensic science and also 2011/12 Page 1 of 10

2 develops students' critical thinking and investigative, analytic and laboratory skills, as well as other personal transferable skills. Knowledge and understanding of these disciplines will be delivered by City and Islington College using an integrated programme of teacher led lectures, tutorials and laboratory analysis as well as through the guided use of student-centred learning activities such as problem solving exercises, case studies, directed reading and e-learning. Level 4 introduces the students to the sciences used in the analysis of physical evidence including many aspects of chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics and statistics. This multidisciplinary nature is a core feature of forensic science and as such, level 4 modules prepare the students by establishing a familiarity with the investigative processes covering these key themes. Level 5 expands upon previous learning relating to crime scene and forensic investigation and includes specialist vocational modules such as Criminalistics and Forensic Lab Skills and Crime Scene Management. In addition, students will cover the foundations of research in forensic science. The combination of modules studied and the variety of teaching methods will prepare students to progress to the BSc in Crime Scene and Forensic Investigative Studies. The College s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) will provide the students with blended learning opportunities allowing them to share information, access learning materials and in combination with the college s online personal learning plans reflect on their learning and track their progression. With regard to learning facilities, the Centre for Applied Science offers specialised group study areas as well as access to a comprehensive range of textbooks, journals and online learning resources. The replica crime scenes enable students to gain plenty of practical experience obtaining forensic evidence from a range of scenarios, including household and fire settings. There is also access to IT and wireless facilities at both the college and the university. 10 Course aims. Course aims are broad statements of intent and should be written to show how the content of the course meets the aims. Where a course sits within a framework the course aims should incorporate framework aims. The course aims to provide an opportunity for students, from a wide variety of backgrounds, to fulfil their potential at foundation degree level and offer the prospect of studying further in higher education. This is achieved by the provision of training in the most up-to-date methods of crime scene forensic theory and practice, and includes practical laboratory sessions as well as the opportunity to participate in field exercises, role-play scenarios and forensic projects, including obtaining forensic evidence and presenting in a court of law. Level 4 builds on a foundation understanding of core science as applied in a crime scene and forensic context, whilst introducing students to the management, investigation, recording and recovery of evidence. Level 4 will also introduce the techniques employed in the examination, comparison and analysis of chemical and biological materials. Academic skills that students will require for the 2 year foundation degree course are embedded throughout the modules. Level 5 provides an advanced understanding of criminalistics in addition to students studying the intricacies of fatal incident investigation and the principles of producing a research project proposal. 2011/12 Page 2 of 10

3 In addition to the above content, students will develop transferable skills which include the ability to work independently and as part of a team, an understanding of the professional requirements of a forensic science practitioner with recognition of current regulations and standards, how to research different topics, problem solving, evaluating their own and others performance and how to present information in a variety of formats. 11 Course Learning outcomes. Learning outcomes are statements of what a student is expected to understand or be able to do after completing the process of learning. The Foundation degree in Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation has been designed in-line with the QAA framework. 1. Knowledge and Understanding On completing the course, students will be able to: 1.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the underlying concepts and principles associated with the various scientific topics studied and the ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of forensic investigation 1.2 Apply knowledge in the application of those principles in context of employment in Crime Scene Investigation 1.3 Evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches in the investigation and management of a crime scene 2. Cognitive intellectual skills On completing the course, students will be able to: 2.1 Understand logical arguments in support or criticism of scientific assertions and theories, incorporating literature-base evidence 2.2 Demonstrate organisation and application of knowledge in a logical and systematic manner appropriate to the purpose or question in hand 2.3 Undertake management of time, finance and planning with regard to crime scene investigation 2.4 Demonstrate academic and scientific literacy at Foundation Degree level 3. Transferable skills including those of employability and professional practice On completing the course, students will be able to: 3.1 Present, evaluate and interpret data in order to develop lines of argument and make sound judgements in accordance with basic theories and concepts of forensic science. 3.2 Communicate information, arguments and analysis in a variety of forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences 3.3 Identify a range of other key transferable skills including active involvement in learning, exercise of initiative and judgement, use of appropriate resources and technology including IT, the ability to work both independently and with others, and the capacity for self-awareness and self-reflection 3.4 Understand ethical and other professional issues involved in practice as a crime scene examiner 3.5 Appreciate the skills necessary to secure and retain employment in the crime scene examination arena, including communication, consideration for others, creativity, dedication and self-discipline 4. Subject-specific practical skills On completing the course, students will be able to: 4.1 Demonstrate an understanding of skills relating to crime scene investigation, including competence in managing and examining a crime scene, quality issues and safe working practices 4.2 Demonstrate confidence in laboratory skills and procedures to initiate and undertake critical analysis of data and suggest appropriate methodologies for a variety of 2011/12 Page 3 of 10

4 measurements in crime scene and forensic areas 4.3 Understand the various legal and law enforcement environments within which forensic science is practised 4.4 Identify the ethical and other professional issues involved in the practice of a crime scene investigator 12 Indicative learning and teaching hours for the course. Learning hours comprise face-to-face and virtual contact hours plus self-managed and directed learning and time spent on placements. Please give an indication of the percentage of anticipated learning hours for the course at each level, taking into account core modules and indicative options. Students should note that these figures may change depending on the exact combination of options taken. Method Description and percentage of learning hours Level 3 Level Scheduled learning and Level teaching activities Level 6 Level 7 Level 3 Level Guided independent studies Level Level 6 Level 7 Workplace Level 3 Level 4 0 observation/placement/fieldtrips/study Level 5 0 abroad Level 6 Level 7 TOTAL LEARNING HOURS FOR THE COURSE Describe the arrangements for promoting reflective learning/personal development planning on this course Students will receive individual tutorials with their tutors in which they can reflect and discuss their performance on the course. Students will develop learning targets that will promote the expansion of personal, academic and professional skills. These will be recorded on the students personal development plans (PDPs) and periodically reviewed. The college VLE hosts discussion boards where students can reflect on the learning materials with peers. 14 Description of course and its structure. Around 150 words, written to be accessible to a lay audience, to be used for marketing purposes. Identify the course s distinctive features (and unique selling point). What is the pattern of delivery? The foundation degree in Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation is a two-year qualification delivered at City and Islington College in partnership with London Metropolitan University. Students will study eight modules relating to principles of core science related to forensic investigation and practical crime scene examination skills. Year 1 comprises four modules that will cover the fundamental knowledge that will be required to progress to level 5 and /12 Page 4 of Crime Scene Investigation Methodologies 2. Crime Scene Documentation and Photography 3. Biology and Chemistry in Forensics 4. Criminal Justice and Law with Forensic Quality Assurance Year 2 comprises four modules with the introduction of specialist modules relating to advanced analytical skills and crime scene management, in addition to preparing students for progression to the BSc Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation level 6 programme. 1. Criminalistics and Forensic Lab Skills

5 2. Fatal Incidents 3. Research Methodologies 4. Crime Scene Management 15 Teaching site(s) for course north City & Islington College [click to select location] 16 PSRB accreditations (where relevant) N/A 17 Exemptions from Professional Body N/A examinations (where relevant) 18 Principal QAA Subject Benchmark Statement (where relevant) Forensic Science (2012) Subject Knowledge and Understanding 5.1, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6 Skills 5.8 Ethical behaviour 19 Other external reference points QAA (2011). UK Quality Code for Higher Education QAA (2010). Foundation Degree qualification benchmark 20 Expected length of course Full Time 2 years Part Time N/A Other (please N/A specify) 21 Admissions requirements, to be demonstrated through certificated or experiential learning (around 30 words) You must be at least 18 years of age and have at least 160 UCAS points from one of the following: Two GCE A2 at grade C or above, including Biology and Chemistry BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied or Forensic Science, with an MPP profile BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Applied or Forensic Science with a MM profile An Access to Higher Education Certificate in science subject. In addition: GCSE grade C or above, in English Language and Mathematics, or equivalent Overseas students will have their qualifications assessed on application and will need to possess IELTS 6.0 average (with a minimum of 5.5 in each component). 22 Details of organised work experience, work based learning, sandwich year or year abroad available during the course (if applicable) Students will work in a multi-purpose college using both laboratories and designated crime scene areas which will provide simulated work experience. 23 Other external links providing expertise/experience available during the course Existing inks with the British Transport Police are currently being strengthened to support the new curriculum design. 24 Arrangements on the course for careers education, information and guidance Career education and guidance will be covered in individual and group tutorial sessions held in the 1 st and 2 nd year in addition to the knowledge gained on their programme of study. 25 Career, employability and opportunities for continuing professional development. Around /12 Page 5 of 10

6 words, written in language which is as accessible as possible to a lay audience, to be used for marketing purposes. Should include examples of potential career destinations and how the skills and abilities gained through the course contribute to career development. This course offers a unique opportunity to learn how to be a crime scene investigator based on industry standards. Upon completion students are able to pursue careers in the Police or as specialist forensic practitioners. Section Two: COURSE STRUCTURE AND ASSESSMENT 26 Course assessment strategy Level 4 (Yr1) Assessment AS4F05 AS4F06 AS4F07 AS4F08 Unseen exam EXU 30 4, 8, 12 Unseen exam EXU , 23, 28 Coursework CWK Coursework CWK Coursework CWK Presentation ORL Practical PRA ,6,9,1 2,15,2 8 Practical PRA AS4F05. In this module there are 5 learning outcomes. Assessment includes a 1500 word written lab report (20%) cover learning outcome 2 (areas of bioscience). Chemical and physical applications will be assessed using multiple choice and short answer set exercises %), covering learning outcomes 1 (principles of organic and physical chemistry) and 3 (physical properties of matter, elementary electricity and magnetism, and radiation), and a practical & written report (2000 words) on analysis of material from a crime scene (50%) will cover learning outcomes 4 and 5 (recovery and analysis of evidence). AS4F06. In this module there are 6 learning outcomes. Achievement of the learning outcomes is assessed through a practical assessment of a crime scene (25%) (Learning outcomes 1 and 2); a 2000 word expert witness statement (25%) (Learning outcomes 3 and 4); practical photography assessment (25%) (Learning outcomes 1, 5 and 6) and a written laboratory report (25%, 2000 words; Learning outcomes 2, 5 and 6). AS4F07. In this module there are 4 learning outcomes. Assessment includes a multiple choice exam %) which will cover key legislation relevant to crime scene examiners (learning outcome 1); set exercises (short answer questions %) will cover learning outcomes 3 (quality standards) & 4 (professional ethics) and a 2500 word essay (40%) will cover learning outcomes 2 (evaluation of criminal justice systems) and 5 (serious and volume crimes). AS4F08. In this module there are 5 learning outcomes. Achievement of the learning outcomes is assessed 5 x 15 minute technical assessments; fingerprint recovery (10%) DNA recovery (10%), Trace Evidence recovery (10%) Footwear Recovery (10%); Packaging (10%) + a portfolio as a summary report (LO 2 50% total mark); 1000 words 2011/12 Page 6 of 10

7 Written Essay (LO 3 30%) and a courtroom Presentation and witness statement* (LO 4, 20%). Students must pass the technical assessment and attend the courtroom presentation (LO2). An aggregate mark of 40% or more is required to pass this module. *Non-expert Witness statements have no set word count as they are unique to the crime scene investigation they relate to. The key test is to cover all facts concisely without offering opinion or irrelevant detail. Level 5 (YR2) Assessment AS5F07 AS5F57 AS5F08 AS5F09 AS5F58 Unseen exam EXU Coursework CWK Coursework CWK Coursework CWK Presentation ORL Practical PRA Practical PRA AS5F07. In this module there are 6 learning outcomes. Assessment strategies include a 2000 words essay %) on analysis and usefulness of evidence covering learning outcome 2 and 3; a written exam on scientific laboratory skills (50%) covering learning outcome 1 and a 2000 words practical report and expert testimony involving critical analysis and reporting (20%) covering learning outcomes 4 (critical analysis), 5 (scientific method) and 6 (explaining data) AS5F57. In this module there are 4 learning outcomes. Achievement of the learning outcomes is assessed through a 1500 word Essay (25%) analysing the roles and responsibilities of a crime scene manager (LO1); a 1500 word Forensic strategy report (25%) on evaluation of strategies (LO3) and a 1 hour Practical assessment with production of written Crime Scene Manager s scene report (50%) on maximising forensic recovery (LO2) and application of leadership skills (LO4) AS5F08. In this module there are 4 learning outcomes. Achievement of the learning outcomes is assessed through a 1 hour Written Examination (40%) on the role of the coroners courts and inquests and the role of the CSI between differing death scene situations (LO1 & 2); a 20 minute Presentation (20%) on the range of external agencies that may be involved in single or multiple fatality scenes (LO3) and a 2000 words written Essay (40%) on causation principles regarding suspicious death (LO4). AS5F09. In this module there are 5 learning outcomes. Achievement of the learning outcomes is assessed through a 1 hour Short answer exam (25%) on differences between volume, serious and major crime (LO1); 2000 word written Essay (25%) on specialists and external agencies (LO3 & 4); 2 hours practical 1 (25%) on scene planning strategies (LO5) and 2 hours practical 2 (25%) on crime scene methodologies (LO2). AS5F58. In this module there are 6 learning outcomes. Learning outcomes will be assessed via a combination of written assessment (70%) and minute oral presentation %). The written assessment comprises a 3000 research proposal on 2011/12 Page 7 of 10

8 an area of research that appeals to the student, which must approved by the tutor. Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 will be assessed in the research proposal and outcome 6 (ethics) will be assessed in the oral presentation. 27 Course Structure Diagram Level Four (Delete as appropriate) Teaching Period Module Code Module Title Status Credits Notes AS4F05 Biology and Chemistry in Forensics AS4F06 Crime Scene Documentation & Photography AS4F07 Criminal Justice and Law with Forensic Quality Assurance AS4F08 Crime Scene Investigation Methodologies Level Five (Delete as appropriate) Semester Code Title Status Credits Notes autumn period (15 spring period (15 AS5F07 Criminalistics and Forensic Lab Skills AS5F08 Fatal Incidents AS5F09 AS5F57 Practical Crime Scene Investigation Crime Scene Management Core 15 AS5F58 Research Methodologies Core Mapping matrix of modules delivering the course learning outcomes Course learning outcome (list all) Met by module aim/learning outcome (list all relevant module titles) 1.1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the underlying concepts and principles associated with the various scientific topics studied and the ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of forensic investigation 1.2 Apply knowledge in the application of those principles in the context of employment in Crime Scene Investigation 1.3 Evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches in the investigation and 2011/12 Page 8 of 10

9 management of a crime scene 2.1 Be able to understand logical arguments in support or criticism of scientific assertions and theories, incorporating literature-base evidence 2.2 Demonstrate organisation and application of knowledge in a logical and systematic manner appropriate to the purpose or question in hand 2.3 Undertake management of time, finance and planning with regard to crime scene investigation 2.4 Demonstrate academic and scientific literacy at Foundation Degree level 3.1 Present, evaluate and interpret data in order to develop lines of argument and make sound judgements in accordance with basic theories and concepts of forensic science. 3.2 Communicate information, arguments and analysis in a variety of forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences 3.3 Identify a range of other key transferable skills including active involvement in learning, exercise of initiative and judgement, use of appropriate resources and technology including IT, the ability to work both independently and with others, and the capacity for self-awareness and self-reflection 3.4 Understand ethical and other professional issues involved in practice as a crime scene examiner 3.5 Appreciate the skills necessary to secure and retain employment in the crime scene examination arena, including communication, consideration for others, creativity, dedication and self-discipline 4.1 Demonstrate an understanding of skills relating to crime scene investigation, including competence in managing and examining a crime scene, quality issues and safe working practices 4.2 Demonstrate confidence in laboratory skills and procedures to initiate and undertake critical analysis of data and suggest appropriate methodologies for a variety of measurements in crime scene and forensic areas Biology and Chemistry in Forensics Criminalistics & Forensic Lab Skills Fatal Incidents Research Methodologies Crime Scene Investigation Methodologies Crime Scene Documentation and Photography Practical Crime Scene Investigation Fatal Incidents Research Methodologies Crime Scene Management Crime Scene Investigation Methodologies Crime Scene Documentation and Photography Criminal Justice and Law with Forensic Quality Assurance Practical Crime Scene Investigation Criminalistics & Forensic Lab Skills Fatal Incidents Research Methodologies Criminal Justice and Law with Forensic Quality Assurance Research Methodologies Crime Scene Management Biology and Chemistry in Forensics Criminalistics & Forensic Lab Skills Fatal Incidents Research Methodologies 2011/12 Page 9 of 10

10 4.3 Understand the various legal and law enforcement environments within which forensic science is practised 4.4 Identify the ethical and other professional issues involved in the practice of a crime scene Criminal Justice and Law with Forensic Quality Assurance investigator 29 Which modules are core-compulsory and thus required to be taken to gain specific awards? Please specify if there are any combinations of modules that a student is required to take to gain either the highest level of award or one of the interim awards listed in section3. are core for the FdSc qualification. Section Three: COURSE SPECIFIC REGULATIONS 30 Courses shall conform to both framework and University Academic Regulations. Where a course in addition has course specific regulations which have been formally approved by the University, these should be included below. N/A Section Four: OFFICIAL USE AND CODES responsibility for completion is as indicated 31 (Faculty) Course Leader at time of approval Nikki Morgan (CIC) Dan Stratton (LMU Academic Link) 32 (Faculty) Source of funding HEFCE [click to select source of funding 2] [click to select source of funding 3] Other: please complete as appropriate 33 (QEU) Original date of approval 34 (QEU) Course approved to run from 35 (QEU) Course specification version number 36 (QEU) Revision date (specify cohort) 37 (Academic Registry) London Met course code 38 (Academic Registry) Route code 39 (Planning Office) JACS code 2011/12 Page 10 of 10