Course Title: Forensics: Characterising Textiles
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Forensics: Characterising Textiles
Credit Points: 12.00
Course Coordinator: Professor Steve Michielsen
Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 1851
Course Coordinator Email: steve.michielsen@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Location: B512 F01 R015
Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
None
Course Description
This course will provide you with a theoretical and practical understanding of principles and concepts of fibre materials, providing a foundational understanding of textile forensics. You will be able to identify and assess a variety of common fibre types (e.g. cotton, wool, polyester) through a number of scientific methods. You will learn how polymers and fibres are used in a broad application of textiles and be able to identify whether the textile samples are homogeneous or blended using various analytical techniques. You will discuss the most commonly used fibre types in different textile applications (e.g. clothing, furnishings, automobiles, etc.), and the common types of fibre materials you would encounter as a forensic investigator.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
In this course you will develop the following program learning outcomes:
PLO1: Demonstrate, integrate and apply specialised technical knowledge and skills in fibre material examinations for a range of forensic contexts.
PLO2: Generate, research and explore ideas, concepts and processes in the field of textile forensic science.
PLO3: Demonstrate and apply critical thinking when identifying and solving problems within the field of textile forensic science.
PLO5: Work with others to undertake forensic textile investigations, demonstrating cultural, environmental and social awareness, and ethical and reflective practice.
Course Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
CLO 1: Use various scientific methods to critically assess a range of fibres suitable for use in textiles.
CLO 2: Determine and substantiate the source of textile materials by analysing fibre, physical properties, chemical structure and manufacturing processes.
CLO 3: Apply specialised knowledge about textile fibres to communicate investigative findings.
Overview of Learning Activities
This course is taught in a combination of practical/laboratory classes and lectures and tutorials.
Lectures will introduce key concepts and theories. Tutorials are used to gain practical experience applying key principles.
As part of the course you will be engaged in workshops, interactive class activities, group discussions and class presentations.
Your learning may also be derived from your own industry research which will include contact with external organisations.
Overview of Learning Resources
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems.
A list of recommended learning resources will be provided by your lecturer including text books, journal articles and web resources. You will also be expected to seek further resources relevant to the focus of your own learning such as laboratory manuals. You will have access to web-based textile technology information, library resources, computer laboratories, colour printers, and photocopiers. You will have the opportunity to access textile laboratories and relevant instruments for practical learning.
RMIT Library provides extensive resources for fashion and textiles students.
Search the library and consult the Fashion and Textiles subject guides for more information.
The library also provides guides on academic referencing and assistance is available via phone, chat and email.
Overview of Assessment
You will be assessed on how well you meet the course learning outcomes and on your development against the program learning outcomes.
Assessment tasks are directly aligned with each Course Learning Outcome. They are as follows:
Assessment Task 1: Practical analysis 20%
CLOs 1, 2.
Assessment Task 2: Laboratory report, 40%
CLOs 1, 2.
Assessment Task 3: Assignment 40%
CLOs 1, 2 & 3
Feedback will be given on all assessment tasks.
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.
Your course assessment conforms to RMIT assessment principles, regulations, policies, procedures and instructions.