forensic science and observation

forensic

from latin word forensics, which means of the forum

forensic science

using science to help resolve legal matters

qualitative data

subjective, uses our senses

quantitative data

objective, data than can be measured

forensic investigator must convince a jury that evidence is

scientific, reliable, valid

forensic investigator

collects physical evidence, reports to law enforcement, possibly testify

observation

gathering information through senses; done largely without thinking

perception

interpreting sensory observations

factors that affect eyewitness accuracy

Fatigue and stress

Distractions (cell phone, etc)

Emotional state (anxiety, fear); Uninvolved bystanders may be more accurate

Time

Individual perceptions

eyewitness accounts

a person who has seen someone or something related to a crime and can communicate their observations; require discrimination between fact and opinion

tips to improve observation skills

Systematically examine the environment

Turn off filters; act like data-gathering robots

Avoid looking for patterns/jumping to conclusions

Concentrate on gathering information

Leave interpretation until later

Write down and photograph as much as possible