The Scientific Method in Forensic Science

Written for the Canadian forensic science student and the professional practitioner, this timely and practical handbook provides an experience-based learning tool. This text offers an understanding of scientific method and evidence-based analysis and how they relate to forensic science and its casework—from the crime scene to the courtroom—within the Canadian context. The authors explore the paradigm shift in forensic science, highlight basic skills like scientific reasoning and literature review, as well as untangle the complexities of ethics and bias, research design, critical thought, and best practices for communication in various settings. Case examples and court testimonies are reviewed to underscore the importance of these concepts.

By blending such real-life examples with scientific concepts like validation, peer review, accountability, and transparency, The Scientific Method in Forensic Science is a fundamental read for students in introductory forensics, criminology, police studies, and anthropology.

FEATURES:

• Includes questions for critical thought, suggestions for further reading, a glossary, and additional instructional popouts
• Provides an experience-based learning opportunity for understanding the scientific method
• Utilizes case studies and court transcripts to illustrate practical applications in a Canadian context

Written for the forensic science student and professional practitioner, The Scientific Method in Forensic Science provides an experience-based learning opportunity for understanding the scientific method and evidence-based analysis as they relate to forensic science in a Canadian context. Underscoring the importance of these concepts, this handbook features real-world case and court examples that depict how scientific rigor has been incorporated into practice and the consequences when it has not.

The authors explore the paradigm shift in the discipline, examining important events and reports like the Kaufman Commission and the Goudge Report; review scientific concepts and reasoning; and outline steps to critically review a journal article and conduct a literature review. They also highlight the importance of critical thinking, ethics and impartiality, the role of statistics in casework, and effective communication.

Blending theory with experience-based examples and featuring thought-provoking questions, exercises, and suggestions for further reading, The Scientific Method in Forensic Science is an essential resource for students in forensic science, criminology, police studies, and anthropology.