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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence
Reference AS4083 Version 5
Created April 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 10
Approved March 2018 SCQF Points 30
Amended September 2023 ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
To provide students with the skills and knowledge to assess, interpret and present scientific data in the legal context.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Develop hypotheses and propositions in relation to case information, justifying your choices.
2 Critique, interpret and evaluate analytical data in the forensic context.
3 Interpret and evaluate in writing the results of the forensic science examinations.
4 Communicate effectively the evaluations of the forensic science report in a courtroom setting.

Indicative Module Content
Continuity of evidence. Interpretation and statistical analysis of analytical data as evidence, including Bayesian statistical evaluations. Prosecutor's fallacy. Potential pitfalls of DNA profiling; profile interpretation, sample problems, physical problems. Casework related experimentation, use of databases, frequency of occurrence. Ethical considerations and potential quality control issues (e.g. cognitive bias) in forensic practice. Written and verbal presentation of evidence to lawyers, investigating officers and courts.

Module Delivery
This is a lecture based module supplemented with tutorials, case studies and guided reading. External practitioners/experts may be involved in the delivery of material.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 50 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 250 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 60% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3
Description: A portfolio comprising data handling and short essays on set topics plus a written formal court report.
Component 2
Type: Practical Exam Weighting: 40% Outcomes Assessed: 4
Description: Cross examination in the Moot court.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The first grade represents Component 1 (Portfolio) weighted as major and the second, Component 2 (Moot court cross examination), weighted as minor. A minimum module grade of D is required for a pass, with compensation of Grade E in Component 1 or Component 2 permitted.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A AA, AB
B AC, AD, BA, BB, BC, CA
C AE, BD, BE, CB, CC, CD, DA, DB, EA
D CE, DC, DD, DE, EB, EC
E AF, BF, CF, DF, ED, EE, EF, FA, FB, FC, FD
F FE, FF
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module Successful completion of Stage 3 Forensic and Analytical Science or equivalent.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 ROBERTSON, B. et al. Interpreting Evidence: Evaluating Forensic Science in The Courtroom. Current Edition. Wiley.
2 TOWNLEY, L. AND EDE, R. Forensic Practice in Criminal Cases. Current Edition. The Law Society.
3 JAMES, S.H., NORDBY, J.J. and BELL, S. Forensic Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques. Current Edition. CRC Press: Boca Raton.
4 JACKSON, G., AITKEN, C. and ROBERTS, P. Practitioner Guide No. 4 - Case Assessment and Interpretation of Expert Evidence: Guidance for Judges, Lawyers, Forensic Scientists and Expert Witnesses. 2015. Royal Statistical Society.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781