Chemistry of Crime Scene Investigation: A laboratory-intensive course for non-science majors

CHED 145

Rebecca W. Corbin, rcorbin@ashland.edu and Brian K. Mohney, bmohney@ashland.edu. Department of Chemistry, Ashland University, 401 College Avenue, Ashland, OH 44805
Chemistry of Crime Scene Investigation is a recently developed course that relates “real world” applications of analytical chemistry to the investigation of crimes. Intended for non-science majors, this course is built around eight laboratory assignments and a cumulative, capstone project. Laboratory investigations include forensic-themed applications such as analysis of pen-inks, blood salicylate, fibers, unknown drugs, gun shot residue, and arson accelerants. Students use chromatography (paper, TLC, GC-FID, GC-MS), spectroscopy (FTIR, UV/Vis, AA), as well as classical qualitative techniques to establish evidence for crime scenarios. In addition to laboratory work, students explore the chemical principles involved in forensic analysis through reading assignments, class discussion, and cooperative problem-solving. The course has been designed to engage students in chemical measurements as well as forensic decision-making. Consequently, students are introduced to the logical processes of scientific reasoning and are invited to consider the impact of chemistry upon society.
 

General Posters
7:30 PM-9:30 PM, Sunday, March 25, 2007 Hyatt Regency Chicago -- Riverside Center, Poster

Division of Chemical Education

The 233rd ACS National Meeting, Chicago, IL, March 25-29, 2007