Introduction to Forensic Science - The Science of Observation

This class is taught by Kim Sloan with 11 years of teaching experience in science.

Forensic science is a broad field that uses scientific knowledge and techniques to aid in criminal investigations and provide expert witnesses at trial to explain results. It is a rapidly growing field with a wide range of career opportunities.

This is a basic introductory class and will not go into the details of specific forensic analysis techniques such as DNA analysis or blood spatter analysis. We will look at a broad overview of types of evidence and different careers that may be related to forensics.  This class will include lecture, discussion, activities to supplement learning, and research. 

In this introductory class, we will cover the basics of forensic science, including:

Observation skills and deductive reasoning
Eyewitness testimony and the Innocence Project
Types of evidence
Careers in forensics

We will also conduct hands-on activities to supplement our learning, such as analyzing crime scene photos and examining evidence samples.  By the end of this class, you will have a good understanding of the principles of forensic science and the different career options available in this field.

Week 1: Observation Skills and Deductive Reasoning

We will discuss the importance of good observation skills and practice noticing details. We will discuss the uses and limitations of deductive reasoning and use our skills to determine our main suspect in a case. 


Week 2: Eyewitness Testimony and The Innocence Project

Should eyewitness testimony be used to convict someone of a crime? We will look at the importance of eyewitness testimony and flaws associated with it. We will discuss the Innocence Project and research an individual who has been exonerated. Students will discuss their findings with the class. 


Week 3: Types of Evidence

We will discuss the Locard Exchange Principle as a foundation for forensic evidence. We will distinguish between circumstantial and direct evidence and practice classifying evidence. We will also distinguish between class and individual evidence. We will use probability so show how class evidence can have probative value. 


Week 4: Careers in Forensics

We will begin looking at careers in forensics by using a case about a mystery skull. After our mystery skull discussion, we will research different forensic careers.