CSFS updated guidance (January 2021) for forensic science teaching and learning in academic year 2020-2021:
Given the rapidly changing and uncertain nature of the current Covid-19 pandemic, the CSFS recognises the need to be flexible with regard to delivery of accredited forensic science programmes across the university sector. Universities themselves are best placed to plan and manage that delivery according to the needs of their student cohorts, the nature of their individual programmes and their own university-wide Covid-19 strategy.
The Component Standards are intended to underpin the Educational Accreditation of an entire programme which, for undergraduate degrees, will be of three or four years duration. The CSFS does expect universities to make every effort to meet those standards over the full duration of the programme, in particular with regards to practical work and associated skills development. If a university can reasonably and safely deliver relevant practical activities on-campus to students in semester two then it is expected that they will attempt to do so. Otherwise, and in addition, universities should consider catch-up summer schools, pre-semester classes in September and some review and revision of relevant aspects of content and delivery in subsequent years of the programme in order that the accredited Component Standards are met. There is less time-flexibility with Master’s programmes but universities should review their programme delivery to make best use of the remaining academic year, including the summer months, to maximise acquisition of relevant practical skills development by their students.
During the first semester of this academic year, the Society have observed a number of examples of good practice relating to the development of hands-on practical skills under the pandemic restrictions. We are sharing these in the document attached and encourage universities to suggest any additional adjustments that may assist others.
Educational Accreditation Committee (EAC) 11 January 2021
Good Practice for hands-on Practical Skills 11.1.21