Forensic Science 5 will focus heavily on cryptology from ancient methods, which seem almost mystical, to modern computer-based double-encryption systems.  With each code-making approach, students will have the opportunity to use known techniques and suggest variations to add complexity.  I will provide small sections of coded messages, with hints about methodologies used, so that the students can try their hands at deciphering each hidden message.  Along the way, we will cover encoded messages from real cases, with emphasis on the massive body of ciphers and coded messages from the Zodiac case, which students who have taken previous installments of my Forensic Science series know is my specialty.  After completing an overview of historical and modern cryptologic techniques, we will shift gears and examine methods of investigating cyber crimes.  Interwoven in the course will be cipher-based mock crime.

Topics (one week each) will include:
1.  Ancient cryptologic methods and concepts, including gematria, temurah (particularly the atbash cipher), notarikon, and isopsephy.
2.  Pre-modern techniques of the simple kind, including grid-based ciphers, rigid alphabet rearrangement, created symbols, and attempts to appear magical.
3.  Pre-modern techniques of the complex kind, including cipher wheels, early substitution OR transposition ciphers, alphanumeric codes, mixing numbers of digits, creating symbols and sigils.
4.  The small ciphers, old and new: one-time pad encryptions, short bursts of enciphered text, and figurate expressions.
5.  Approach to solving substitution ciphers.
6.  In-class ciphers to solve (4 weeks)
7.  Investigation of cyber crimes: methods and agencies involved in the analysis of computer-based crimes, from low-level hacking, to large-scale ransomware attacks and international cyber attacks aimed at power grids or government structures.

Teaching methods and class structure:  As with my other forensic science classes, this class will focus on the Socratic Method.  I will provide materials and images and lead discussions aimed at fostering critical and analytical thinking.  Cryptology is a particularly appropriate subject when working on expanding one's thinking.  I am very laid back, and encourage my students to feel confident in their own ideas.  

All students will have extensive opportunities to interact with me and with other students.  Discussion will be a cornerstone of our exploration of the topics covered.

Required experience:  None, quite simply.  Students do not have to have completed any of the previous Forensic Science classes in the series.  They are numbered, but they each cover distinct topics within the field.