NCJ Number
218792
Date Published
April 2001
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This article describes the development of interactive CD-ROM proficiency testing and training in crime scene investigation.
Abstract
The Australian National Association of Testing Authorities has, at the recommendation of the Forensic Science Accreditation Advisory Committee, adopted crime scene investigation as part of the criteria for accrediting forensic laboratories. As such, an interactive CD-ROM training program called After the Fact was developed with three main aspects: (1) crime scene virtual reality; (2) investigation tools; and (3) written tools. The After the Fact training program enables investigators to walk through a virtual crime scene and provides a realistic scene-processing function that requires investigators to take photographs, make notes, and collect and package evidence. Investigators then complete a written test relevant to the particular scene they just processed. Advantages and disadvantages of the virtual CD-ROM training program are offered before the article moves to a discussion of the development of a separate training package that would enable crime scene agencies around the world to access a system capable of providing self-assessment and formative training in crime scene investigation. The program trains crime scene investigators in the following skills: (1) initial assessment of the crime scene; (2) controlling the crime scene; (3) examining the crime scene; (4) interpreting evidence at the crime scene; (5) recording the crime scene and evidence; (6) collecting evidence; and (7) case management. The program is currently being evaluated for fire, explosion, and clandestine laboratory training and was successfully demonstrated at the 83rd International Educational Conference held in Arkansas in 1998. The advantages of the proficiency training program are enumerated followed by the one disadvantage, which is that it requires dedicated hardware and software. Figures, references, addendum A-B