Catalog Description
Prerequisite: Completion of POST Basic Academy
Hours: 16 lecture
Description: Fine tune the skills obtained in the Basic Academy regarding crime scene investigations for the patrol officer. Topics include fingerprinting, chain of evidence, videographing and the recognition of evidence and the importance of recording placement. (pass/no pass grading) (not degree applicable)
Course Student Learning Outcomes
- CSLO #1: Explain the role of a crime scene investigator.
- CSLO #2: Demonstrate basic crime scene investigation techniques.
- CSLO #3: Demonstrate various evidence-collection techniques, following the proper chain-of-custody.
Effective Term
Fall 2017
Course Type
Credit - Nondegree-applicable
Contact Hours
16
Outside of Class Hours
32
Total Student Learning Hours
48
Course Objectives
1. Explain the role of the crime scene investigator;
2. Demonstrate the techniques of starting a crime scene investigation;
3. Illustrate a crime scene through the development of a crime scene sketch;
4. Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of various methods of crime scene recording;
5. Outline a proper chain of custody; and
6. Demonstrate proper techniques for recovering latent fingerprints.
General Education Information
- Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
- CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
- Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
- IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)
Articulation Information
Methods of Evaluation
- Problem Solving Examinations
- Example: Students create an accurate crime scene sketch depicting relative locations of key pieces of evidence.
- Skill Demonstrations
- Example: Students will demonstrate the ability to develop and preserve latent fingerprints at a mock crime scene.
Repeatable
No
Methods of Instruction
- Lecture/Discussion
Lecture:
- Using PPT and sample sketches, Instructor will explain and demonstrate various methods for recording a crime scene. Students will demonstrate how to record a crime scene.
Typical Out of Class Assignments
Reading Assignments
1. Read selected instructor-provided handouts pertaining to crime scene analysis. 2. Read instructor-provided handouts describing proper ways of recovering fingerprints.
Writing, Problem Solving or Performance
1. Complete a sketch of a basic crime scene. 2. List the basic latent fingerprint development processes given different surfaces and environmental conditions.
Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)
Required Materials
Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.
Instructor-compiled materials.