Overview

This module introduces students to the principles, purpose, and skills of conducting criminal investigations. Students will examine the fundamental principles and legal frameworks of conducting investigations and will learn about crime scene examination and collecting evidence. This will include crime scene investigation as well as the principles and legislation relating to conducting interviews with suspects and victims of crime.

Indicative course content:

-Principles and legal framework of investigating crime in England and Wales -Crime Scene preservation -Evidence gathering including interviews with suspects, search and entry powers, etc -Interviewing Suspects – the PEACE process -Technology and its use in the investigation process -Investigation processes for specific types of crime – e.g. hate crime, domestic violence, public order, etc

Assessment Strategy

-good -(B+ to C+)Knowledge of key areas/principles. No original interpretation. Only major links between topics are described. Limited problem solving Understands the main elements of the subject area. Limited evidence of background study. Has several factual/computational errors Answer focused on question but also with some irrelevant material and weaknesses in structure. Arguments presented but lack coherence Some claims are supported with evidence from valid sources. Some sources are cited/referenced to Harvard standards

-excellent -(A++ to A-) Comprehensive knowledge. Original interpretation. New links between topics are developed. New approach to a problem Detailed understanding of the subject area. Extensive background study. No factual/ computational errors Highly focused answer and well structured. Logically presented and defended arguments All claims are supported and evidenced from valid sources. Sources are cited and referenced to Harvard standards

-another level-(C to D-) Knowledge of key areas/principles only. No original interpretation. Only major links between topics are described. Limited problem solving Weaknesses in understanding of the subject area. Limited evidence of background study. Several factual/computational errors Answer only poorly focused on question and with some irrelevant material and poor structure. Arguments presented but lack coherence Most claims are unsupported or supported only by evidence from invalid sources. Little content is cited and referenced to Harvard standards Many weaknesses in presentation and accuracy

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse the difference between 'volume and priority' crime and 'serious and complex' crime and the relevance to the investigative process

• Examine the structure and processes in relation to conducting an investigation and analysing different types of evidence

• Review and analyse the powers, legislation and supporting principles relating to police interviews and conducting investigations

• Students will develop the ability to explain the appropriate processes for gathering and managing evidence/information that may be pertinent to an investigation