Implementation of Information Management Tools in DNA Casework Workshop

Description:

This workshop will introduce practical tools for practitioners to implement information management procedures using the Linear Sequential Unmasking-Expanded approach. The workshop will begin with a background presentation on key concepts in human factors and the importance of information management in forensic casework. The introduction is followed by group activities on the general human factors concepts. Once the general concepts have been covered, presenters will cover concepts specific to linear sequential unmasking and linear sequential unmasking-expanded and other impact mitigation techniques for cognitive bias in forensics. A practical tool for implementation of LSU/LSU-E will be provided and the participants will be divided into groups. Each group will work through examples using the worksheet to classify different types of information/communications which could be encountered in casework. The groups will practice documenting and categorizing information based on biasing potential, subjectivity, and task relevance. Participants are encouraged to bring examples of communications or information received in their past casework or communication logs from closed cases to practice with the worksheet. Following the practical exercises, there will be a discussion to compare and contrast how the participants classified each piece of information and and time for any questions that may have come up.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will learn basic concepts in human factors.
2. Participants will learn concepts specific to Linear Sequential Unmasking and Linear Sequential Unmasking-Expanded
3. Participants will apply the concepts using a practical tool to implementation
4. Participants will discuss their experiences and impressions encountered during the practical exercise
5. Practitioners will now have an understanding and a starting point for creating their own tools or adopting the tools presented in the workshop to help overcome barriers to implementation.

Intended Audience:

• Forensic practitioners, management, case managers and quality assurance personnel.
• Forensic science teachers, professors and students.
• Human factors researchers