Introduction to Forensics

Vocabulary flashcards related to key concepts in forensics covered in the course.

Flipped Learning

An educational approach where students learn material before class, allowing class time for discussion and problem-solving.

Locard’s Exchange Principle

Every contact leaves a trace, meaning that evidence is left behind by anyone who interacts with a crime scene.

Direct Evidence

Evidence that directly establishes a fact, such as eyewitness statements.

Circumstantial Evidence

Evidence that requires inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact, like a fingerprint at a crime scene.

Forensic Science

The application of scientific methods and techniques to investigate crimes and analyze physical evidence.

Comparison Microscopy

A technique used to compare gun casings from a crime scene to those of suspected weapons.

The CSI Effect

The phenomenon where the portrayal of forensic science on television influences juries' expectations and perceptions.

Eyewitness Testimony

A legal term referring to evidence presented by a witness who has seen the event in question.

Strong Evidence

Evidence that has a high degree of reliability and is likely to be persuasive in court.

Weak Evidence

Evidence that is less reliable and may not strongly support a case or argument.

Forensic Pathology

The study of medical history, injuries, and cause of death to determine the circumstances surrounding a crime.

DNA Fingerprinting

A method used to identify individuals based on unique patterns in their DNA.

CSI Day

A practical session in the forensic course that involves hands-on experience in crime scene investigation.

Crime Scene Investigation

The process of examining a crime scene to collect and analyze evidence.

Blood Spatter Analysis

The examination of blood patterns to reconstruct events of a crime.

Toxicology

The study of the effects of chemicals on living organisms, often used in forensic contexts to analyze bodily fluids.

Fingerprint Analysis

The examination of fingerprint patterns to identify or exclude individuals as possible suspects.

Chain of Custody

The documentation and handling of evidence to ensure it remains secure and untampered with throughout an investigation.

Document Analysis

The examination of documents in order to determine authenticity, detect forgery, or identify the writer.

Investigative Techniques

Methods employed by law enforcement to gather evidence and information during an investigation.

Judicial Process

The system of courts and legal procedures through which crimes and disputes are resolved.

Ballistics

The study of the dynamics of projectiles, such as firearms and their ammunition.