FOR5023 · Quality management in the forensic sciences

Overview

Quality management (QM) is a key part of forensic science operations. It is critical to the value and integrity of, and confidence in the results issued by a forensic science service provider. The aim this unit is to introduce you to the concept of QM, its various components and its role in the accreditation and certification processes. Accreditation to International Standards such as ISO 17025 has become the norm for forensic science laboratories as a demonstration of their competence. Accreditation criteria (ISO 17025) cover, for example: • Management requirements; • Management system • Control of records • Internal audits and management reviews • Technical requirements; • Method verification and validation • Reference standards and materials • Test and calibration methods • Proficiency testing • Reporting results Although part of the forensic science stream, QM has broad implications across all streams within the Master's degree program and indeed, work places in general. This on-line Unit will explore components of QM such as quality assurance and quality control, expand on the requirements for accreditation and explain the benefits of the QM process. Contemporary articles/texts on QM will be provided.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment in this unit includes hurdle assessment tasks. Failure of any hurdle assessment task may result in failure of the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Comprehend and critically evaluate the principles of quality management and relate these to a forensic investigation
2. Critically evaluate how International Quality Managementstandards in forensic science are applied within the workplace
3. Review and evaluate the underlying principles for International Standards on which QM in the forensic sciences is based.
4. Articulate the management and technical requirements of formal quality accreditation in forensic science laboratories.
5. Comprehend and evaluate the reasons/need for institutionalised QM practices in the context of forensic practice.
6. Explain the role and positioning of quality management in the criminal justice system.

Workload

It is expected that you will need to undertake approximately 12 hours of study per week over the Semester. This will include private study (text and readings), assessment tasks (case studies, assignments), and may include involvement in case work.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.