Concepts

Question 1

Popper’s perfect experiment

Answer 1

1. Tests a falsifiable hypothesis
2. Has at least one alternative hypothesis
3. Has experimental controls
4. Is well documented
5. Is performed “double blind” or verified independently
6. Has a sufficient sample of experimental controls
7. Can be reproduced by others
8. Provides clear results related to the problem studied
9. Peer reviewed

Question 2

Notes

Answer 2

Used for:
Disclosure
Integrity of analysis
For providing effective testimony
To remind us years later what was done in the case

Question 3

Class characteristics

Answer 3

An identifiable feature that assists in narrowing the statistical probability that a questioned object or person belongs to the same group as a known object or person. Consistent class characteristics between questioned objects and individuals can only suggest similarities and cannot, by themselves, be used to infer a positive identification

Question 4

Limited class

Answer 4

Less broad than a class characteristic - aftermarket parts, nonstick, aftermarket additions, accessories

Question 5

General class

Answer 5

Makes, models, years, designers, logos, etc

Question 6

Individual characteristics

Answer 6

Includes things like dirt, damage, natural deviation

Question 7

Damage characteristics

Answer 7

Dents, cracks, chips, rips, tears, splatter, etc

Question 8

Take away characteristics

Answer 8

Dirt, debris, snow

Question 9

Conclusion reporting

Answer 9

Types of conclusions

Likelihood ratios
Strength of support statements
Match frequencies/random match probabilities
Likelihood of observed similarity
Source probability statements
Categorical conclusions
Reliability principle

Question 10

Seven steps of the scientific method

Answer 10

1. Make an observation
2. Ask a question
3. Form a hypothesis
4. Conduct experiments
5. Collect data
6. Analyze results
7. Accept or reject hypothesis