Introduction to Digital Forensics - Computer Science - Labs Included
In this Self-Paced class, students will learn and practice the basic concepts of digital forensics. We will explore many areas of the field and have multiple hands-on labs. Join me to discover what the digital forensic world looks like!
What's included
9 pre-recorded lessons
9 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentHomework
1 hour per week. These will be short weekly quizzes with some simple labs which will allow students to apply their new knowledge.Assessment
There will be an end of course final lab and exam. Both will be based on what students learned throughout the 9 week course.Grading
A certificate of completion and grade will be offered upon request.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 12
Intermediate - Advanced Level
During this 9 week course, students will discover the importance of the digital forensic field. The lessons will begin with the basic concepts and progresses into a deep dive into the fundamental knowledge all digital investigators need. The course is structured with a weekly video lesson(s) and quiz and/or lab. Some weekly lessons will be broken into smaller bite size videos for easier consumption and time to grasp important concepts. The end of course lab culminates in applying all new knowledge by following the forensic process to examine pieces of evidence.
Learning Goals
Students will leave the class with an understanding of the digital forensics field and some of the important concepts applied in the everyday work of these computer scientists.
Syllabus
6 Units
9 Lessons
over 9 WeeksUnit 1: Digital Forensics 101
Lesson 1:
Welcome to Digital Forensics
-What is digital forensics? Explaining it in simple terms.
-Importance of digital evidence and its role in solving crimes.
-Basic understanding of the tools used by computer forensic analysts.
Quiz 1 20 mins of video lessons
Lesson 2:
Exploring Digital Data
-Different types of digital data: text, images, videos, etc.
-How data is stored and accessed on computers and digital devices.
-Interactive activities to understand where digital evidence can be found.
Quiz 2 Unit 2: Using Hashes for Data Validation
Lesson 3:
Understanding Hashing
-What is a hash value?
-Hands-on lab: Hashing a string
-The purpose of a hash value
Quiz 3 Lesson 4:
Data Validation
Validating Files
-Using hashes to locate and validate
-Scenario and Lab - Validating data Other Details
Learning Needs
This class will come with video lessons, quizzes, an end of course Lab and Final Exam. Some of the lessons will come with a lab to practice what you've learned.
Parental Guidance
The digital forensic field exists for investigative reasons therefore there will be surface discussions about types of crimes that can be solved with digital data discovery.
Pre-Requisites
A general understanding of how computers and cell phones work and an interest in the computer science field :)
Joined March, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Troy University
Associate's Degree in Science from Enterprise State Community College
My experience in this subject:
I am currently a digital forensic analyst and a director of training for a private company.
Previous to this, I worked as a non-sworn digital forensic analyst for a local law enforcement agency and a member of the ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) Task Force. I graduated with a Bachelors of Criminal Justice with a concentration in Digital Forensics from Troy University and have attended the US Secret Service National Computer Forensics Institute and the National White Collar Crime Center for an array of forensic and investigative subjects. I also worked alongside the local Board of Education to create and present safety topics to students and parents. Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$14
weekly or $120 for all content9 pre-recorded lessons
9 weeks of teacher support
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1 year of access to the content
Completed by 4 learners
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Ages: 13-18
