Forensic Science Book 2: CSI Activities to Engage Learners

Forensic Science Bk 2 - CSI activities to engage learners

By David Winter, Chris Astall

Forensic Science Book 2 supports the subject at senior secondary level. The resources needed for its activities are available in a high school science laboratory or else are easily sourced. The Forensic Science series sets activities in a forensic context that will stimulate students’ interest in and understanding of science. It offers students an irresistible way to develop their scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills. It provides first-hand, fascinating insights into the work of forensic scientists. Challenging them to use authentic crime scene investigation (CSI) techniques to examine evidence, at the same time it links their work directly to the science curriculum, including the nature of science.

PAGES: 67 | AGES: 15-18

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Dr David Winter is a lecturer in science education at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand. For many years he was a forensic scientist with the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), performing a variety of forensic examinations for the New Zealand Police, including the toxicological analysis of post mortem specimens. He has presented scientific evidence on numerous occasions in the District Courts and the High Court, played a significant role in forensic laboratory accreditation and quality assurance and has developed and delivered training programmes for police and customs officers. After gaining a PhD in marine biology in 1992, Dr Chris Astall trained to become a primary school teacher and taught in schools in both the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Since 2008 he has been a senior lecturer in science education at the University of Canterbury, in Christchurch, New Zealand, a role that involves working with many schools throughout the country. In 1999 he was awarded the prestigious Royal Society (UK) Millennium Fellowship for his community science development project “Saturday Science and Technology”. His current research interests include the use of ICT in science education, the development of nature of science through children’s literature and exploring how schools can develop sustainable science practices. He has presented nationally and internationally and has facilitated numerous workshops, through science conferences and consultation work.