What will I learn on this module?
You will be given a rounded introduction to the principles of digital crimes and digital forensics from both a theoretical and technical perspective provided in contextual setting for digital forensics by an examination of the criminal justice system within England and Wales. You will be introduced to the basic philosophy and concepts of digital forensics, in particular the role of digital evidence and the basic techniques associated with gathering, preserving and presenting digital evidence. You will be guided in developing a critical and analytical approach to problem solving, the application of computer fundamentals and principles to digital evidence, an examination of the consequences of actions, the need to protect evidential integrity, and the need to document all actions. You will also be provided with an introduction to the particular legal, professional and ethical issues likely to face digital forensic examinations, such as legal requirements in the gathering, preservation and presentation of digital evidence so that it will be admissible in a court of law.
CoP pre-join curriculum learning outcomes: CoP February 2023 curriculum v6.0 05/2023
Digital Policing: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, , 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, , 6, 7
Communication Skills: 1.6a, 1.8, 2
How will I learn on this module?
The module includes a combination of methods to support learning, including lectures, practical seminar sessions and guided learning. Topics will normally be introduced in lectures and explored through practical exercises (helping you develop the practical skills needed) and guided learning activities. You will be encouraged to develop independent learning skills. The university library offers support for all students through its catalogue and an Ask4Help online service.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported through active participation and discussion during seminars and workshops. These offer a unique opportunity to fully understand the theory underpinning the principles and practices of a thorough and effective police investigation. All lecture, seminar and workshop material will be available on the University’s eLearning Portal, supplemented with guidance on further reading relevant to the subjects.
Written assessment feedback will also be provided to allow you to understand how you performed and how you can build on this performance in subsequent assessments within your programme.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Acquire an understanding of the core concepts which underpin the disciplines of digital forensics
2. You will acquire the necessary knowledge and understanding of the relevant computer crime and law.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Identify findings obtained from digital forensic investigations and apply appropriate procedural principles to that evidence.
4. Appreciate the ethical, legal and professional responsibilities required of practitioners in these disciplines
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Communicate and present written investigative findings in such ways that they meet the expected standards.
How will I be assessed?
Formative – Short MCQ quiz via elp. Feedback via elp.
Summative – Written 2,500 word assignment which will be used to assess all MLO’s. Written feedback will be provided via elp.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module introduces you to the principles of digital forensics from both a theoretical and technical perspective and provides a contextual setting for these disciplines by an examination of the criminal justice system within England and Wales. You will be guided through and provided feedback on exercises during the timetabled sessions as well as attending a series of lectures and seminars covering core teaching topics. You will be assessed via a 2,500 word written assignment critiquing an aspect of digital crime investigations.
Course info
UCAS Code LL44
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years full-time
Department Social Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2024 or September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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