Studying at York
Forensic Phonetics - LAN00005H
Related modules
Pre-requisite modules
Co-requisite modules
- None
Prohibited combinations
- None
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Autumn Term 2022-23 |
Module aims
This course provides an introduction to the practical, ethical, and legal principles of forensic speech analysis in criminal investigations. Through auditory and instrumental analysis, we will investigate the phonetic parameters which can be useful in the process of identifying an individual speaker. We will discuss and replicate phonetic analysis which has been performed in criminal cases. We will also explore the performance of lay listeners in speaker identification, discussing the problems involved in eliciting and using 'earwitness' evidence in court.
Module learning outcomes
Knowledge outcomes
Students will gain a thorough understanding of the theoretical and methodological issues which underpin analysis of speech involved in criminal settings.
Students will develop an understanding of the problems involved in performing suitable analysis where the available materials are difficult and/or sensitive.
Value outcomes
Students will develop experience of the practical problems involved in analysis of difficult and sensitive materials.
Students will learn to appreciate the ethical issues involved in collecting and analysing criminal data, and in presenting the results to a non-specialist audience.
Behavioural outcomes
Students will become proficient at and develop competence in the following skills:
- Analysing data using qualitative, quantitative and statistical methods
- Graphic and statistical presentation of data
- Writing professional reports, using standard types of argumentation
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 30 |
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 70 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 30 |
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 70 |
Module feedback
Feedback on formative work
Weekly lab sessions
Oral advice and feedback on work to individuals and whole group
Summative assessment and feedback
Laboratory report
Feedback: written feedback within two weeks
Timed practical exam
Feedback: to be given after marks released (by the end of week 5 in the spring term) and the chance for students to see their own papers
Indicative reading
Nolan, F. (2001) Speaker identification evidence: its forms, limitations, and roles. Proceedings of the conference 'Law and Language: Prospect and Retrospect', Levi, Finland.
Eriksson, A. (2005) Forensic Phonetics. Paper presented at tutorial session on Forensic Speech Science, Interspeech (9th European Conference on Speech Communication and Technology), Lisbon, Portugal.