Introduction to Forensic Speech Science - LAN00100M

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2025-26

Module summary

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

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2025-26

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 be able to:

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

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

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

  • appreciate ethical issues involved in collecting and analysing forensic data;

  • demonstrate skills in auditory analysis of forensic recordings.

Module content

This module involves a combination of lecture-style teaching and lab-based practical tasks.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 50
Essay/coursework 20
Essay/coursework 30

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 50
Essay/coursework 20
Essay/coursework 30

Module feedback

Written feedback within 20 working days.

Feedback will also be given weekly in lab sessions and office hours.

Indicative reading

French, J.P. & Harrison, P. (2006) Investigative and evidential application of forensic speech science. In A. Heaton-Armstrong, E. Shepherd, G. Gudjonsson & D. Wolchover (eds.) Witness Testimony: Psychological, Investigative and Evidential Perspectives. Oxford: OUP. pp. 247-262.

Jessen, M. (2008) Forensic phonetics. Language and Linguistics Compass 2(4): 671-711.

Jessen, M. (2018) Forensic voice comparison. In M. Rathert & J. Visconti (eds.) Handbook of Communication in the Legal Sphere. Berlin: De Gruyter Mouton. pp. 219-255.