ADMJ 0073. Report Writing for Criminal Justice
Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Techniques for effectively communicating factual information in a clear, concise and thorough manner in the various types of reports used within the criminal justice system; emphasis on criminal justice terminology, use of English, and organization of information; practical experience in interviewing, note taking and report writing throughout the criminal justice system. (CSU)
ADMJ 0073 - Report Writing for Criminal Justice
http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/admj-0073/
Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Hours: 54 lecture Description: Techniques for effectively communicating factual information in a clear, concise and thorough manner in the various types of reports used within the criminal justice system; emphasis on criminal justice terminology, use of English, and organization of information; practical experience in interviewing, note taking and report writing throughout the criminal justice system. (CSU) Units 3 Lecture-Discussion 54 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 54 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Justify the importance of writing factual and accurate reports in the administration of justice field. Demonstrate effective interviewing and note taking skills. Apply proper interviewing skills to create a properly written report from obtained information. Course Content Outline I. The need for effective report writing A. Accurately record events B. Records management II. Investigation basics and note taking A. Steps in the investigation B. Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of investigation C. Mechanics and uses of field notes III. Narrative report writing A. Writing mechanics B. Describing persons, property, and events C. Facts vs. opinions IV. Types of reports A. Crime reports B. Arrest reports C. Incident reports V. Interviewing A. Conducting an interview B. Writing report VI. Writing Search Warrants A. Warrant process B. Affidavit process Course Objectives Course Objectives 1. Identify the importance of writing an accurate report for the purpose of recording events; 2. Recognize the important role of a Records Management System to preserve a written record of events; 3. Outline the steps in an investigation; 4. Demonstrate an interview and take field notes to construct a written narrative from the information obtained; 5. Apply proper writing mechanics in a clear, concise, and thorough narrative report format; 6. Differentiate between facts and opinions and their proper usage in a report narrative; 7. Compare and contrast the various types of investigative reports used in the administration of justice; 8. Outline the necessary steps to obtain a warrant and identify the required information for an affidavit. Methods of Evaluation Reports Skill Demonstrations Reading Assignments 1. Students will be asked to read a chapter from the text and be prepared to discuss information in class. 2. Students will be asked to read sample law enforcement reports and analyze the information in the narrative. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Students will be asked to take field notes during an interview of mock witness/victim. 2. Students will be asked to write a sample narrative based on their interview and field notes. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) 1. Students will be asked to watch a video of a crime occurrence and write a descriptive narrative of their observations. Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.
Administration of Justice
http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/departments/administration-justice/
Overview The Administration of Justice program offers students an Associate Degree for Transfer which prepares students for transfer into the California State University system. In addition, there are three associate degrees offered with specific areas of concentration. Each concentration has specific core courses that are required of all students. Courses are available in law enforcement, specializing in police activities that promote public safety and service to the community; courts, specializing in responsibilities to the public through the trial system of adjudication; and corrections, where sentenced individuals are subjected to society's effort to provide accountability and correct the deviant behavior. The Administration of Justice program also offers a number of POST certified peace officer training courses, including PC 832 Arrest and Firearms, as well as Modules III and II of the POST Regular Basic Course (Law Enforcement Academy). Successful completion of the two modules allows students to be hired as Level III or Level II Reserve Peace Officers in California. The Department also offers some in-service POST training courses for continuing professional development. TRANSFER MAJOR REQUIREMENTS in Administration of Justice are available in the Counseling Center. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for specific transfer requirements. Four-year graduates in Administration of Justice are qualified for career pathways in law enforcement, the courts and corrections. Faculty Ralph McGill Professor, Administration of Justice B.A., New College of California
