Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - CRIM 818 G100

Contemporary Issues in Forensic Science (3)

Class Number: 2661

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Fri, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Forensic science has been defined as the application of science to the law. An examination of what forensic science is from a theoretical, legal and scientific standpoint and how it is being shaped by the differing agencies involved in delivering it. The course itself is aimed at the non-scientist.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course will combine instruction in a range of specialized forensic sciences, illustrated with analysis of actual criminal cases, and, in some cases, hands-on experience with the techniques, when possible. Instruction will include exposure to a wide range of experts in the field. Students will be expected to be prepared to discuss and critique the techniques presented with the instructors. This course is not intended to train students as forensic scientists, but rather to expose them to a variety of subjects so that they will be equipped to understand and use them, if necessary, in their future careers. Students should be aware that some of the material studied will be extremely disturbing.

Any student who feels that the nature of the topics may be too upsetting is discouraged from taking this course.

 

COURSE EVALUATION:

Students will be expected to participate enthusiastically in class and to prepare two research papers which can be on any subjects within the forensic sciences, but should critically evaluate the techniques including present limitations, future improvements, use in court, etc.

Grading

  • Research Papers (2 @ 40% each) 80%
  • Class Participation 20%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Readings will be from a compendium of appropriate readings from recent texts and journal articles compiled for this course.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.