Forensic Taphonomy (P02350)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : HCA-P-FA

The key aim of the course is to offer students an understanding of the taphonomic processes that can affect human remains following death, which is key is to meaningful forensic interpretation of osteological data. Factors affecting decomposition and putrefaction of soft tissue, preservation of soft tissue, the importance of entomology, palynology and botany are covered, as well as the identification and analysis of calcined bone and an awareness of cremation technology.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Postgraduate (School of History and Classics), (School of History, Classics and Archaeology, Schedule E)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 5 weeks

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course the student will
- Have an understanding of the process of decomposition and putrefaction of a human body.
- Have an understanding of the natural agents that cause post mortem changes in a corpse.
- Be able to assess the effect of burial practices on buried remains
- Understand the role of entomology, palynology and botany in the reconstruction of the burial environment and the assessment of the post mortem interval.