Innovative Learning Methodologies For The Studies On Forensic Sciences

The use of new learning methodologies in forensic sciences represents a great possibility to permit students to get the necessary knowledge on the key concepts and methodological procedures followed by forensic researchers. In this work, professors in forensic analysis in the Degree of Chemistry and some collaborators have designed some innovative learning strategies to make students easier to get the fundamental concepts in Forensic Chemistry, particularly those related with the application of their own criteria to establish theories and working hypothesis to solve specific practical cases. These new methodologies were applied to a group of 18 students who were divided in small working teams. Simulated cases were proposed to all of them to be solved either in the classroom and laboratory by using collaborative work between all teams as well as new strategies where the use of ICTs and competitive games played a central role in the teaching-learning strategies, resulting in groups of highly motivated individuals. Students showed their satisfaction with these new tools to get the essential competencies in Forensic Sciences to be acquired by Chemistry Graduates.