The future of forensic science education

This chapter explores the impact and implications of the new teaching exercise framework (TEF) and the future of the research exercise framework (REF) for forensic science education. It also considers the current and future for wide-ranging discussions about, and dissemination of, good practice in teaching, learning and assessment in forensic science and related disciplines. A prediction of the next decade of education in light of falling student numbers, increasing university fees and reduced opportunities for funding coupled with a shrinking forensic jobs market is considered. One aspect that will define forensic practice and education over the next decade and beyond is accreditation of not only forensic sciences education but also of practitioners and forensic science providers. Accreditation is based upon a series of 'component standards'. The standards address specific areas of forensic practice and are intended to augment underlying scientific knowledge of the forensic components.