Course Title: Forensic Case Study

Course Description:
This course will explore a selection of important forensic case studies that have had a
significant impact on the field of forensic science and criminal investigations. Through in-
depth analysis of these cases, students will gain a deeper understanding of various forensic
techniques, methodologies, and their role in solving complex criminal cases. The course will
also emphasize the ethical and legal considerations involved in forensic investigations.

Course Duration: 15 weeks

Unit 1: Introduction to Forensic Science

Course Overview and Introduction to Forensic Science
Historical Development of Forensic Science
Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence Collection
Principles of Evidence Preservation and Chain of Custody
Ethics and Legal Aspects in Forensic Science

Unit 2: Forensic Case Studies in Trace Evidence

The O.J. Simpson Case: Analysis of Blood Evidence
The Unabomber Case: Forensic Analysis of Explosives
The Ted Bundy Case: Hair and Fiber Analysis
The Green River Killer Case: Analysis of Soil and Plant Evidence
Midterm Examination and Discussion

Unit 3: Forensic Case Studies in DNA Analysis

The Golden State Killer Case: DNA Profiling and Genealogy
The Amanda Knox Case: DNA Evidence in a High-Profile Murder Trial
The Innocence Project: DNA Exonerations
Ethical Dilemmas in DNA Analysis
Final Examination and Course Wrap-Up

Assessment:
- Weekly quizzes to test knowledge of case details and forensic techniques.
- Midterm examination covering materials from Units 1 and 2.
- Final examination covering materials from Units 3 and 4.
- Class participation and discussion of ethical and legal considerations.
- Final project: Students will choose a real-life forensic case study and present an analysis of
the forensic evidence and its impact on the outcome of the case.

Note: This syllabus is a general guideline and can be adapted to suit the specific needs and
requirements of the course and institution offering it. Additionally, the choice of forensic case
studies can be updated to include more recent or relevant cases based on the current state of
forensic science and criminal investigations.

Unit 4: Forensic Case Studies in Digital Forensics

Introduction to Digital Forensics and Cybercrime Investigations
The Stuxnet Worm: A Case of Cyber-Espionage
The Silk Road Case: Dark Web and Cryptocurrency Investigations
The Sony Pictures Hack: Digital Forensics in Corporate Espionage
The Ashley Madison Hack: Privacy, Ethics, and Digital Investigations

Unit 5: Forensic Case Studies in Forensic Anthropology and Odontology

Forensic Anthropology: The Kennewick Man Case
Forensic Odontology: The Ted Bundy Bite Mark Analysis
The 9/11 World Trade Center Attacks: Forensic Identification of Victims
Cold Case Resolution: The Disappearance of Amelia Earhart
Course Review, Final Project Presentations, and Conclusion

Assessment:
- Weekly quizzes and discussions on digital forensic techniques and case details.
- Midterm examination covering materials from Units 3 and 4.
- Final examination covering materials from Units 5.
- Active class participation and discussion of ethical and legal considerations in digital
forensics.
- Final project presentations: Students will analyze a real or hypothetical digital forensic case
and present their findings, including the challenges and ethical considerations involved.
Grading:
- Weekly quizzes: 20%
- Midterm examination: 20%
- Final examination: 20%
- Class participation and discussion: 15%
- Final project presentation: 25%

Please note that the course schedule, topics, and case studies can be adjusted based on the
specific focus and depth of the forensic science program, as well as the level of the course
(undergraduate or graduate). Additionally, guest speakers or field trips to forensic laboratories
may be incorporated to enhance the learning experience.

Certainly! Here are some Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) for the "Important Forensic Case
Studies" course:

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. **Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles and history of forensic

science.**
- Discuss the historical development of forensic science.
- Explain the importance of forensic science in criminal investigations.

2. **Apply appropriate techniques for crime scene investigation and evidence collection.**
- Describe the steps involved in securing and processing a crime scene.
- Demonstrate proper evidence collection and preservation methods.

3. **Evaluate the ethical and legal considerations in forensic investigations.**

- Analyze ethical dilemmas that may arise during forensic examinations.
- Identify legal standards and requirements for forensic evidence admissibility.

4. **Analyze and interpret forensic evidence in various case scenarios.**

- Critically evaluate the use of forensic evidence in high-profile cases.
- Interpret the significance of trace evidence, DNA, digital evidence, and other forensic data.
5. **Examine the impact of forensic evidence on case outcomes and justice.**
- Discuss cases where forensic evidence played a pivotal role in the investigation and trial.
- Evaluate the limitations and challenges of relying on forensic evidence.

6. **Apply knowledge of digital forensics to investigate cybercrimes and digital incidents.**

- Conduct basic digital forensic examinations on digital media.
- Analyze case studies involving cybercrimes and digital investigations.

7. **Critically assess the role of forensic anthropology and odontology in solving complex
cases.**
- Explain the principles and methodologies of forensic anthropology and odontology.
- Evaluate the application of these disciplines in specific case studies.

8. **Communicate effectively and professionally about forensic case studies.**

- Present findings and analyses clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing.
- Engage in informed discussions and debates on the ethical, legal, and scientific aspects of
forensic cases.

9. **Apply problem-solving skills to analyze real or hypothetical forensic case scenarios.**

- Collaborate with peers to solve complex forensic problems.
- Develop solutions and recommendations for improving forensic investigations and
processes.

10. **Reflect on personal and professional growth in the field of forensic science.**
- Assess personal ethical and professional development as it pertains to forensic science.
- Consider potential career paths and areas of specialization within the field.

These Course Learning Outcomes are designed to ensure that students gain a comprehensive
understanding of forensic science and its real-world applications through the study of important
forensic case studies. Assessments and assignments throughout the course should align with
these outcomes to measure student achievement and mastery of the material.