POL5032 - Advanced Investigative Skills

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, apprentices will be able to:
1 - Compare and contrast methods of gathering, analysing, evaluating and using intelligence for effective police use;
2 - Recognise the factors that contribute to the complexities of some investigations; and,
3 - Analyse investigative skills from an evidence-based position and develop reflective practice as a result.

Content:

This module covers the investigation process in more depth, specifically information and intelligence, interviewing, an evidence-based approach to investigations and considers serious and complex criminality.

In respect of information and intelligence, students will learn how to gather and evaluate relevant intelligence from a range of sources as appropriate to a policing operation; to analyse and evaluate information and intelligence that would be suitable for a given policing operation; how to employ analytical products provided by intelligence specialists during the course of an investigation; how to develop information and intelligence for the purpose of informing the tasking and coordination process; and how to make use of the additional sources of intelligence that can be obtained during a complex investigation.

In respect of interviewing, students will learn about complex circumstances when conducting interviews; the importance of the concept of memory upon interview methods and processes; overseas enquiries/ investigations; and apply learning from previous investigations (and/or interviewing) to future investigations.

In respect of evidence-based policing, students will learn about potential constraints associated with an evidence based policing approach and identify best practice; how to systematically review and critically evaluate available evidence; and how to optimize opportunities to obtain the best available evidence, evaluate options and develop the most appropriate solution to a given policing problem.

Students will also learn the difference between ‘volume and priority’ crime and ‘serious and complex’ crime and its relevance to the investigative process; and the potential links between serious and organised crime and public protection issues.

This module will encourage students to reflect on where knowledge associated with British Values, Prevent, Healthy Relationships and Safeguarding have been developed.

English language, and where appropriate maths skills, will be developed through this module. The skills associated with the above subjects are developed to support students to understand the potential links between serious and organised crime and public protection issues.

Digital skills will be developed through the utilisation of online resources such as the University's VLE, e-Portfolio system and Leeds Trinity University Library system.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Utilising the pre live post model, students will have preparation for the taught element, with a focused lecture-based input and discussion, allowing for the development and exploration of ideas. This will be followed by additional self-directed learning to enhance their initial teaching.

Independent study time should be spent on specific pre learning (on-demand learning – available to all students on Moodle), for example, engaging in specific background reading of the topic and online exercises. Post learning activities will be provided by the module tutor, but these will generally be assessment focused enabling the learner to achieve the assessment requirements.

All activities and materials provided on Moodle will support the module content for the module delivery including pre, live and post activities and resources.The sequencing of the sessions will provide re-enforcement of the theoretical concepts developed during the delivery in a progressive pattern, aimed at developing knowledge and overall understanding.

Lectures
Hours: 36
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 164

Further details relating to assessment
Students are required to consider ‘What Works’ – an assessment of practice through the use of a case study approach and review considering reflective practice.

Formative is captured through Q&A with tutors and peers throughout the module to ensure learning and understanding of the topics covered and identify and gaps or trends. Decision making and problem-solving activity allows for students to apply their knowledge practically, allowing for both feedback and feed-forward opportunities to develop student’s confidence and ability in applying their learning within a controlled learning environment.

Please note that all assessments must be passed (at 40 for numerical marks) as a requirement of the College of Policing.

Assessment:

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Jacob Thandi
Level - 5
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NOT APPLICABLE
Semester(s) Offered - 5APS5AP5AP

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