Case Assessment & Interpretation

The role of the forensic scientist may be defined as “The provision of information to help answer questions of importance to investigators and to courts of law.”

The forensic scientist generates qualitative observations from tests conducted on exhibits and provides guidance in the form of expert opinion on how their observations impact on the issues under consideration. In developing an expert opinion, the forensic scientist uses inference.

Therefore, understanding the nature of inference is a necessary pre-requisite for the expert witness. The case assessment and interpretation, or CAI, model, uses Bayes’ Theorem in an approach to inductive thinking and produces balanced, logical, robust and transparent scientific opinion.

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Course overview

This course provides an interactive workshop in which the CAI model is explored and tested in both the classroom and in syndicate groups. Using case examples, the course explains the role of Bayes’ Theorem within the CAI model and explores concepts such as the hierarchy of propositions and the distinction between investigative and evaluative modes of working. Pre-course reading on probability theory is provided since many aspects of CAI are probabilistic in nature.

Course Highlights

Inference and the principles of expert opinion
Probability theory
Bayes’ theorem
Working in evaluative mode
Formulating propositions
Determining expectations
Likelihood ratios and strength of evidence
The verbal scale
The prosecutor’s fallacy
The hierarchy of propositions
The importance of conditioning information
Dealing with “no comment”
Reporting considerations - abbreviated outputs
Working in investigative mode
Forensic strategy setting and strategy updates

Award: CPD
Level: Short Course
Delivery: Campus
Study Mode: Full time
Duration: 5 Days
Campus: Preston
Start Date: Start dates are varied

Entry requirements

Relevant operational experience.

On completion of the course delegates will have a thorough understanding of the CAI model, will be able to develop effective forensic strategies, calculate likelihood ratios and use these to formulate robust expert opinions. Delegates will be able to differentiate between investigative and evaluative modes and recognise the appropriate circumstances in which to use them.

Taught by practising forensic scientists.

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This course is based in the School of Natural Sciences located in the Faculty of Science and Technology

For information on possible changes to course information, see our essential and important course information

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Case Assessment & Interpretation

Course overview

Course Highlights

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Learning environment

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