Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Evidence and Investigation
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: PSY11104
Module leader: Faye Skelton
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Psychology
Prerequisites

N/A
Description of module content:

1. To develop knowledge of UK criminal justice systems and the differences between them.
2. To consider the role of psychologists within UK criminal justice systems.
3. To provide a comprehensive overview of the interaction between psychology and the criminal justice system.
4. To develop a critical understanding of the role of psychological research in informing and enhancing practice.
5. To consider differences between adversarial and inquisitorial legal systems.

Indicative content includes: Eyewitness memory and identification of suspects; false and recovered memories; interviewing witnesses and suspects including vulnerable individuals; false confessions; false allegations; detection of deception; investigative and jury decision making; expert witnesses.
Learning Outcomes for module:

1. Identify and analyse similarities and differences between different jurisdictions, or within jurisdictions over time.
2. Critically evaluate the contribution of psychological theory and research to legal and investigative processes.
3. Understand the role of the expert witness and the requirements for expert evidence
4. Critically evaluate the role of forensic psychology in understanding and preventing miscarriages of justice.
5. Synthesise research evidence to make informed evaluations and recommendations in line with appropriate professional standards.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2022/3, Trimester 1, FACE-TO-FACE, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: FACE-TO-FACE
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Faye Skelton
Module Organiser:


Learning, Teaching and Assessment (LTA) Approach:
LOs 1-5. Content will be delivered via face-to-face classes that will be lecture-style to provide an overview of the area and also incorporate class tasks and discussions.
Tasks will require you to work both individually and in groups to synthesise information, form opinions, and develop arguments. Discussions will aim to develop critical thinking, reasoning and listening skills.

Formative Assessment:
You will engage in a timetabled class debate around a current issue. You will be given feedback on the quality of your argument in terms of clarity, reasoning, evidence, and how you present yourselves. This will be valuable for developing the quality of your written work on the module but also across the programme, and provide an opportunity to receive feedback on your oral communication skills which will assist in other oral assessments on the programme.

You will also be encouraged to engage in online discussions relating to class content. Module staff will regularly check in on discussions and add comments and feedback as appropriate.

Summative Assessment:
Component 1: An expert witness report on a fabricated case. The report may be written or oral but must conform to relevant standards for expert witness evidence. This will assess LOs 3 and 5.

Component 2: A comparative analysis of the contribution of psychological research to one of the topic areas covered by the module, comparing EITHER across time OR jurisdictions. This will assess LOs 1, 2 and 4.
Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)
Face To Face Lecture 22
Face To Face Demonstration 2
Online Guided independent study 11
Independent Learning Guided independent study 165
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words
Report 50 3,5 9 HOURS= 00.15, WORDS= 2500
Essay 50 1, 2, 4 13 , WORDS= 2000
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
PSY11104 Evidence and Investigation
 

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