A laboratory stations activity provides a rigorous, hands-on introduction to concepts and techniques in forensic anthropology in an introductory forensic science course

Abstract

This article presents the use of a laboratory stations activity in an introductory forensic science course in order to introduce students to concepts in forensic anthropology and techniques for estimating the
biological profile of skeletal remains. After completing preliminary activities, students examined osteological replicas in order to estimate age at death, stature, and sex; and analyzed evidence of skeletal trauma. Students were provided with reference materials to aid in their analysis. The advantages of using this format included high student engagement and inquiry, real-world problem-solving, realistic case scenarios, and challenging content. Some of the challenges encountered included difficulty comparing the osteological replicas to sketches and photos in order to assign scores and identify bony landmarks. These issues could be resolved by incorporating more preliminary instruction and providing additional reference materials.