Multidisciplinary learning using mock trials

In 2007, the Computer & Digital Forensics (C&DF), Criminal Justice (CJ), and Paralegal programs started to employ a mock trial to bring students from these three disciplines together. The event starts with a pre-planned crime scene. CJ students secure and process the crime scene, interview witnesses, and gather evidence. Digital devices are recovered and are forensically processed by the C&DF students. Investigative reports are forwarded to Paralegal students who work with local attorneys who act in the role of the prosecution and defence teams. A retired criminal court judge presides over the proceedings, complete with a jury selected from volunteers from the college community. For many students, this is the first trial scenario they have seen outside of television.