Introduction to Forensic Speech Science - LAN00017M

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

This module introduces the scope, tasks and practices of forensic speech and audio analysis.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of this module students will achieve:

an understanding of the theoretical and methodological issues which underpin analysis of speech involved in criminal settings;

an understanding of the problems involved in performing suitable analysis where the available materials are difficult and/or sensitive;

experience of the practical problems involved in analysis of difficult and sensitive materials;

appreciation of ethical issues involved in collecting and analysing criminal data;

skills in auditory analysis and digital processing of forensic recordings.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 25
Essay/coursework 25
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 50

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 25
Essay/coursework 25
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 50

Module feedback

Written feedback within 20 working days.

Indicative reading

Jessen, M. (2008) Forensic phonetics. Language and Lingustics Compass 2: 671-711.

Nolan, F. (2001) Speaker identification evidence: its forms, limitations, and roles. Proceedings of the conference Law and Language: Prospect and Retrospect , Levi, Finland. http://www.ling.cam.ac.uk/francis/LawLang.doc

Essential readings will be identified each week. Key readings are available in a course pack or online.