Practical Skills in Forensic Science

Practical Skills in Forensic Science is designed specifically to support and develop the complete range of practical skills which are essential to success in Forensic Science courses. This range of skills includes work in practicals and laboratory sessions, and also relates to projects, study skills and assessments, exam revision, time management, and even how to put together a CV. The authors provide a concise and user-friendly guide, which will help students to focus on how to perform as effectively as possible in their course.Extensive pedagogy - including key points definitions, illustrations and worked examples, tips and hints, 'how-to' boxes and checklists - provides an accessible and student-friendly approach. Focus is on the underlying principles and key points, rather than on providing recipe-like solutions for every potential aspect - this helps students to develop their own critical assessment of evidence and analysis of results. Case examples and advice on the reporting of results help students to relate the theory they learn to putting the skills into practice themselves. Coverage of how to evaluate information, the use of the internet and world wide web, helps students to develop critical thinking and analysis skills. A consideration of how to approach the legal aspects of forensic science, such as chain of custody and expert witness testimony, demystifies these topics and makes them more approachable. Each chapter is supported by a section giving key sources for further study - this shows students the importance of reading around the subject, and gives lecturers useful suggestions for additional reference. Revision and examination skills guide students in effective study skills and help them to maximise their likely success in exams.