A3 Scientific detection: module summary
All six Applied Science modules explore science used in real workplaces, from the viewpoint of practitioners. The Scientific detection module provides an insight into three vocational areas:
• law enforcement (forensics)
• environmental protection
• consumer protection
The drama of forensic investigation can make this module very attractive to students. However there are more opportunities for employment in environmental monitoring, consumer protection, and health care.
Scientific detection builds on students' work in the GCSE Science course, especially
C1 Air quality
C2 Material choices
P2 Radiation and life
C3 Food matters
All six modules have in common the five features which we think characterise applied science. The nature of the assessment for the course follows from these features.
1 A cluster of related contexts in which people apply science in their work – but with freedom to adapt to local circumstances
2 Authentic procedures and techniques (adapted as necessary for school laboratories) – ‘where the results matter’
3 Underpinning knowledge, including some big ideas of potential value for progression
4 The framework within which people apply science
• organisations
• employers
• regulators including health and safety
• social context including values
5 Applying knowledge and techniques to solve a practical problem
The module will come across to students as more authentic if you are able either to organise trips out to organisations involved in scientific detection, or to set up visits to the class by practitioners.
In this context scientific detection can be interpreted very broadly to include people such as environmental health officers, doctors, or nurses who use tests for preliminary diagnosis, and staff at the laboratories of a local college or university.
See also the Applied Science videos.
