Reducing Bias in Forensic Science

Author

Ruth M. Speidel, Eastern Kentucky UniversityFollow

Abstract

Bias can influence the decisions of a Forensic Scientist through the use of task irrelevant information. The paper is used to address the issue of bias by explaining how bias works, what types of bias effect conclusions, and what is currently being done. A survey was also prepared and distributed to FOR 401 students to gather information on how bias works, and to show the dangers of how too much information can skew results. Proportion testing as well as chi-squared test was used to demonstrate how the levels of biasing information have an impact on a conclusion. The results showed an increase in the amount of positive answers when there was an increase in the amount of information provided. The results also demonstrated a change in the dependence between the two questions asked during the survey when there was a change in the type of information provided.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 2019

Mentor

Michael Ward

Mentor Professional Affiliation

Chemistry

Access Options

Restricted Access Thesis

Document Type

Bachelor Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Department

Chemistry

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

2563

Recommended Citation

Speidel, Ruth M., "Reducing Bias in Forensic Science" (2019). Honors Theses. 693.
https://encompass.eku.edu/honors_theses/693