On 6th October 2016, Transition Year students at Davitt College participated in our fourth annual Forensic Science Workshop. The aim of these engaging workshops is to bring classroom science into real-world situations, inspiring more students to continue studying STEM subjects at Third Level.

As part of the workshop, students were presented with a realistic crime scenario and tasked with cracking the case wide open. The activities provided our TY students with an exciting opportunity to experience the everyday application of science, combining observation and deductive reasoning with the scientific principles they are currently learning in class.

🕵️‍♂️ Cracking the Case

To narrow down their suspect list and match evidence to the culprit, the students moved from station to station utilising advanced forensic techniques, including:

• Suspect Profiling: Analysing suspect information, including their whereabouts at the time of the crime, their occupations, and potential alibis.
• Ballistics & GSR: Studying the amount of Gun Shot Residue (GSR) left on the clothing of suspects to trace the weapon used.
• Fingerprint Matching: Cross-referencing physical evidence found at the scene with the suspects’ records to establish a definitive link.

By carefully analysing all the scientific data gathered, the students successfully eliminated false leads to solve the crime. The workshop is just one sample of the incredible showcases the Science Department organises each year, with the BT Young Scientist Competition also forming a pivotal part of the Transition Year programme.

A special thank you to Forensic Scientist Ms. Alison Leck from Education Interactive, Sydney, Australia, who expertly facilitated the day. 🔎🔬💡🎓