Bite Mark II module (FM50012)

​Develop specialist skills in bite mark comparison and forensic analysis. Examine methods for evaluating complex criminal and civil cases and the risks and admissibility issues

Credits
10
Module code
FM50012
Level
5
Semester
Semester 1
Semester 2
Faculty
Faculty of Health
Discipline
Dentistry

​​Bite mark analysis is one of the most challenging and contested areas of forensic odontology. This module gives you in-depth knowledge of the methods used to compare bite marks in complex criminal and civil cases. 

​You will study the full range of comparison techniques, the software tools used to support analysis, and the legal and ethical issues around admissibility of bite mark evidence. You will examine historical cases of wrongful conviction linked to the misuse or misinterpretation of bite mark evidence, and consider what this means for responsible expert witness practice. 

​Teaching is delivered through seminars and direct instruction, supplemented by My Dundee-based case scenarios and online resources for independent study. The module runs over approximately three weeks. 

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

  • ​Develop a comprehensive understanding of bite mark analysis in complex criminal and civil cases 
  • ​Study comparison techniques and the software tools used to support bite mark analysis 
  • ​Examine the risks associated with bite mark comparison, including admissibility of evidence 
  • ​Understand the role and responsibilities of the expert witness in bite mark cases 
  • ​Critically appraise past cases involving misuse or misinterpretation of bite mark evidence 

​By the end of this module, you will be able to: 

  • ​Evaluate and critique the methods used in bite mark analysis and comparison 
  • ​Apply knowledge to make a qualitative assessment of bite mark evidence 
  • ​Use a range of software tools to support bite mark analysis and comparison 
  • ​Understand the risks of bite mark comparison and the potential for wrongful conviction​

Assignments / assessments

​​Coursework assignment (80%) 

  • ​Full analysis of a suspected bite injury with digital comparison to a suspect 
  • ​Written as a forensic report, up to 2,000 words 

​Class participation (20%) 

  • ​Active participation in seminars and discussion sessions 

​This module does not have a final exam.​

Teaching methods / timetable

  • ​​Seminars and direct instruction 
  • ​Blackboard-based case scenarios 
  • ​Online resources for independent study 

​The module runs over approximately three months, with one session per week.​

Courses

This module is available on the following courses:

Module lead