Training and the Code of Ethics Flashcards
What is a code of ethics?
A formalized set of guidelines outlining
Acceptable behaviour
Specific needs and values of workplace
Potential consequences of not adhering to the code
Why do workplaces have codes of ethics?
Sets a standard of ethics
Codifies a clear commitment of values, principles, duties
Spells out acceptable and responsible behaviour
Give examples of clauses that may be present in a code of conduct.
Professional dress code, social media activity
What are the 5 themes in the forensics codes of ethics?
Honesty/integrity
Confidentiality
Qualifications
Maintain knowledge and skills
Objectivity
What are the four common categories in the forensics codes of ethics?
Working within professional competence
Providing clear and objective testimony
Avoiding conflicts of interest
Avoiding bias and influence, real or perceived
Why is competency important for forensic scientists?
We assume they have taken proficiency tests and are maintaining current knowledge
What are some issues with competency?
Misrepresentation of competency (deception)
Lapse in competency (negligence)
What are the goals of competency and professional training in forensic science?
Preparing the next generation of forensic scientists
Continuing professional development and training for current practicing forensic scientists
Need to educate users of forensic science (e.g., lawyers, doctors, police)
What makes a competent forensic scientist (5)
Solid educational background in natural sciences
Extensive laboratory course work
Strong personal attributes (integrity)
Professional skills
Professional involvements (teaching, mentoring, research, volunteering)
What type of academic training does a forensic scientist need?
Depends on their end goal
What are some precedents for unethical science and research?
WWII, Tuskegee syphilis study, animal testing
What types of risk needs to be evaluated during an ethics proposal?
Group vulnerability, research risk, risk to researchers
How is risk determined?
Risk matrix determines if review is full or expedited
What is group vulnerability?
Groups with limited access to decision making capacity or crisis resources
Give examples of vulnerable groups
Elderly, youth, animals, environment
What is research risk?
Probability of general harm participants may experience as a result of study
Give examples of research risks
Clinical diagnoses/side effects
Stress/anxiety
Stigma, loss of employment, deportation, criminal investigation
What is quality management?
Outlines clear roles, responsibilities and accountabilities
Involves communication strategies
Focuses on truth and results
What is quality assurance?
Planned and systematic activities implemented so quality requirements will be fulfilled
Focuses on prevention
Give examples of quality assurance task
set standards for training and CE, proficiency testing
What is ISO17025?
Standards for testing labs - has been adopted by forensic labs
What is proficiency testing?
Tests to asses capabilities of staff and lab procedures.
What is internal testing?
Scientist is told about an upcoming test which is run by the company
What is external testing?
Outside body tests, staff is made aware beforehand
What is a blind test?
External body does the test, staff is unaware it is going to happen
What is quality control?
Observation techniques and activities used to fulfill requirements for quality
Focuses on detection of defects/issues
Give examples of quality control
Peer review
Double checking lab work methods
What are the two ways labs are measured for quality?
Accreditation and certification
Differentiate between accreditation and certification
A = industry level (ex. ISO 17025)
C = individual
Give examples of potential errors in a forensics lab
Equipment failure
Contamination of evidence
Security issues
Continuity errors
Incorrect info in released reports
Loss of evidence
What is root cause analysis?
Fact-finding mission used to evaluate the procedures to identify all possible areas of an issue
Outline the process of corrective action
Description of problem
Root cause analysis
Corrective action plan
Implantation of plan
Evaluation of solution
Explain the case of Shawnnon Hale
Accused of SA
SA occurred on terrace, DNA left on victim, cigarette butts also on terrace and were compared
Butts tested
Continuity broke down, butt swapped with DNA on victim, said Shawnnon was the perp
