Forensic
science is the application of science to the law and encompasses
various scientific disciplines. Topics
discussed will include organic and inorganic chemical analyses
of physical evidence, principles of serology and DNA analysis,
identification of fresh and decomposed human remains, ballistics,
and drug analysis. The field is interdisciplinary and
so is the course approach. We (the three professors) will
participate during all of the classes. We will work, alone
and in groups, to develop and research questions involving
forensic methods and their analysis. We will use the untimely
death of Anna Nicole Smith and subsequent paternity case
surrounding her infant daughter Dannielynn Birkhead and the
Branch Davidian mass fatality in Waco, Texas to introduce
technique and theory, to demonstrate the how solving a case
requires an interdisciplinary team approach and to allow
you to practice your analytical and logical reasoning skills.
Syllabus
Spring 2008