NCJ Number
76854
Date Published
1980
Length
145 pages
Annotation
This report discusses the success of the Forensic Sciences Foundation's Forensic Microscopy Workshops Project.
Abstract
Inadequate exposure to the microscope, lack of qualified instructors, and budget cuts which limit opportunities for training are factors that have contributed to the disuse of microscopy in crime laboratories. The project sought to help alleviate this problem by providing expert instructors in workshops close to examiners' workplaces and by reducing the workshop fee by 80 percent. Although the project was designed to conduct 20 1-week regional workshops in forensic microscopy for approximately 300 crime laboratory examiners, 357 examiners were trained. In addition, a review of the state of the art of forensic microscopy and a model for future criminalistic workshops were completed. In addition, priority topics for future workshops were compiled, based on a survey of workshop participants. Sections focus on methodology, results, the future workshops model, and findings and recommendations. Appendixes contain application materials, the preworkshop assessment examination, workshop handouts, minimum equipment requirements, and daily quizzes. In addition, information on the Koehler illumination procedure, the final examination, a proficiency test, evaluation instruments, and a recommended topics survey results form are provided. Illustrations, the curriculum, data tables, and other materials are included.