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Lecture: Forensic Science. Forensic Science is the use of: * scientific knowledge * scientific methods to answer legal questions. An investigation team uses inquiry skills to help solve crimes. These skills include: * observing * inferring * predicting * developing a hypothesis.
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Forensic Science is the use of: * scientific knowledge * scientific methods to answer legal questions.
An investigation team uses inquiry skills to help solve crimes. These skills include:* observing* inferring* predicting* developing a hypothesis.
Observing to find evidence:Using one or more of your senses to gather information. Usually:* Sight* Smell* Hearing* (rarely taste/touch)Observing is used to find evidence which can be presented in court to make a point during a trial.
Inferring* is offering a reasoned opinion based on observations and experience.* Uses ability to reason rather than your senses.* Inferences usually require further investigation
Predicting is stating an opinion about what will happen in the future. * Use observations to make predictions* try to decide what to do next - people who steal collections usually try to sell them nextPredictationsare made by crime solvers based on their past observations and experiences.
A hypothesis is a possible explanation from a set of observations.* Can be more than one reasonable hypothesis for a given set of facts
Forms of Evidence Used in Solving A Crime:* Statement from a witness* Item collected at a crime scene* Results of tests done on an item collected at scene* The place an item is found can be used as evidence.All evidence/observations can be used as clues to help solve a crime.
Securing and Recording a Crime SceneThere are two ways make a crime scene secure.1. Establish clear boundaries.2. Limit entry to the crime scene
Recording a Crime Scene1. Photographs2. Videos3. Sketches4. Scale Drawings5. Note Taking