Bringing forensic science into the law curriculum

Academics at the University of Leeds and Staffordshire University are working to overcome disciplinary boundaries between law and forensic science and to develop innovative learning and teaching materials for law students. The motivation for this work stems from the current apparent lack of communication between legal and scientific academics, and the benefits from greater collaboration for students, future professionals, and ultimately, the legal system (see 'When science doesn't meet the law' (2008) 11 July, New Law Journal pp992-993).

The project began with the development of Web-based materials for law students, detailed in When science doesn't meet the law (Directions Autumn 2008). A workshop using the materials was run at LILAC 2009.

The project is now expanding to explore avenues for improving communication and collaboration between legal and forensic science academics across the UK, with the aim of improving the education of both law and forensic science students. Lowering the drawbridges, a workshop hosted by UKCLE and the Academy Physical Sciences Centre was held on 27 May 2009 in Leeds to explore the issues related to teaching forensic science and law - read Michael Bromby's report of the day from Digital Directions.

Contact Carole McCartney on lawcim@leeds.ac.uk for further information, or visit the Physical Sciences Centre's forensic science networking page.