Workshop Subjects:
(1) "Contextual Bias and Context Management”
by Erwin J.A.T. Mattijssen, (e.mattijssen@nfi.minvenj.nl), NFI
Abstract
In recent years, criticism of the traditional forensic identification sciences has increased. This criticism focuses, in particular, on the lack of scientific rigor within these fields with a strong emphasis on the potentially contaminating effect of irrelevant case information. Even though numerous articles have been written on the influence of contextual bias in forensic science, most of these do not provide the reader with specific guidelines on how to reduce or overcome bias in casework. To provide a better understanding of the sources of contextual bias and to give a possible solution to minimise its influence in casework this workshop will:
1) Give an overview of cognitive bias within the forensic domain in combination with judgments given by forensic examiners
2) Provide information on the question if context management is truly needed
3) Provide a classification system for the different types of contextual bias with Forensic Firearms examples
4) Give an example of an implemented context management system within the field of Forensic Firearms Examination
Keywords:
Context management; contextual bias; domain-irrelevant case information; subjective judgment; quality assurance; firearms.
(2) "Introduction to Wound Ballistics”
Abstract
Introduction and background. Basic anatomy and human tissues. Mechanism of wounding. Temporary and permanent cavities. Differences between low, medium and high velocity bullets. Differences between bullet designs. Entrance wounds and classification. Exit wounds and classification. Causes of death. Incapacitation and stopping power. Activity after being shot. Tissue and skin simulants. X-rays and calibre. Case studies.
WORKSHOP PROGRAMME |
6th November 2015 |
09:00 – 10:30 Scientific Part 1 |
10:30 – 11:00 Coffee Break / Exhibition - Posters |
11:00 – 12:30 Scientific Part 2 / Closing |
12:30 – 14:00 Lunch |
The workshop fee will be €75 and will include admission to the workshop, coffee break and lunch.