This module provides the student with an in-depth training into pharmacology, analytical chemistry, case law, expert witness and statement writing. These skills form the fundamental duties of a forensic toxicologist. The two major branches of forensic toxicology in the UK are criminal and road traffic toxicology. Both of these require the practitioners to possess a knowledge of the analytical techniques used to analyse drugs and the pharmacology of these drugs. This module will provide students with a clear understanding of the biological effects and therapeutic uses of drugs, before focusing exclusively on both criminal and road traffic toxicology. There will also be a focus on drug testing in sport and its confirmation.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Flipped Lectures will be given to introduce topics and guide students in directed reading in preparation for tutorial sessions where a selection of case studies and problem-solving exercises will be discussed and understanding assessed (with clickers) integrated into the VLE. Students will undertake set practical experiments in the laboratory related to the theory programme. Practical report writing will test written communication and observation skills. Field visits and expert guest lecturers are intended to foster student awareness of careers in Forensic Science. The module emphasizes laboratory practice, clear communication and independent working which are important employability skills.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures (24 x 2 hours duration per week) Workshops (4 x 2 hrs each) Practical sessions (6 x 3 hrs in total) | 48 8 18 |
| Guided independent study | 226 | |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Assessment of learning outcomes will be made in a variety of ways. Summative assessments will be through a variety of tasks such as questions in practical reports culminating in a graded practical portfolio (3 practical's x10% 800 words maximum each), 2 practical simulated forensic toxicology case studies which will include presentation and expert report to assess knowledge, understanding and interpretation skills (25%, 1,500 words report maximum x2 and presentations 5 mins maximum 10% x2).
A range of formative assessments undertaken both in class, in practicals and during independent study, of relatively short duration will be set on a weekly basis on content determined by the module leader. This will provide regular and detailed feedback to students so that they can develop an awareness of their rate and level of progress and of their strengths and weaknesses. On-going discussion via the personal tutor and module leader will assist the student in the development of strategies for improvement and enhancement
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| • Debate the role of the Forensic Scientist in relation to forensic toxicology cases, illustrating the importance of the prevention of evidence contamination and devise appropriate sampling and storage protocols for a range of analytes and matrices | Case Study Tutorial Examples (F) Case Study Reports (S) |
| • Discuss in depth the biological effects of typical drugs encountered in criminal and road traffic toxicology; | Case Study Presentations (S) Case Study Reports (S) |
| • Critically assess the best methodology and technique appropriate for a drug sample analysis- including validation and accreditation used for the analysis of biological and chemical samples in relation to criminal and road traffic toxicology; | Case Study Reports (S) Practical Portfolio (S) |
| • Demonstrate advanced professional skills in the production of toxicology reports and statements; | Case Study Presentations (S) |
| • Interpret current legislation as applied to drugs and evaluate the latest trends in drug abuse and manufacturing. | Case Study Tutorial Examples (F) |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Expert Witness Case Study 1 | Practical Exam | 35% |
| Expert Witness Case Study 2 | Practical Exam | 35% |
| Practical Portfolio (3x10%) | Coursework | 30% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any major element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module
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