Critical Thinking in Death Scene Investigation
 

UW-Parkside students recently completed a new Winterim course called Critical Thinking in Death Scene Investigation. The course, offered  by the Criminal Justice Department, is a collaborative concept created by Dr. Jana-Marie Truesdell, PHD, College of Social Sciences and Professional Studies Dean Peggy James, and the Theatre Department.

“Investigation and critical thinking are important aspects of life and the more you can hone in on these skills the better. There has been a huge boom of interest in this field. Television series and movies have sensationalized this field of work and people don’t always have the practical understanding of these investigative practices, this course will allow for students to better understand what’s factual and possible beyond the realm of fictional television series,” said Dr. Truesdell.

The week-long course introduced students to the basic concepts and practicalities of death scene investigation from a medico-legal perspective. Critical thinking is facilitated through examination of the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Deaths, a series of eighteen intricately designed dollhouse-style dioramas created by Frances Glessner Lee, a pioneer in forensic science.

A life-size version of one of Frances Glessner Lee's original nutshells is brought to life in the Black Box Theatre. On the last day of class, students worked through the nutshell, looking at all the evidence presented therein, and decide how the tragic scene relates to each of the various manners of death: natural, accidental, homicide, suicide, or undetermined. 

The plan is to offer the Critical Thinking in Death Scene Investigation course each Winterim, offering a different life-size diorama each time. For more information about the course please contact Dr. Truesdell at truesdej@uwp.edu.