Media Assignment
How accurately are forensic anthropologists and scientists portrayed by the media?

Media Assignment maps to the following ANTH 351 learning outcomes:
as a member of an investigative team, apply scientific principles and processes to the collection and evaluation of evidence according to professional standards
analyze evidence and case details and recommend solutions using appropriate quantitative and qualitative anthropological and statistical methods
draw sound conclusions and effectively assess the arguments of others by applying ethical and legal standards in the context of forensic anthropology
accurately and effectively communicate information using appropriate terminology and format

Forensic science, including forensic anthropology, fascinates the general public. However, the portrayal of the work of forensic scientists is not always accurate. In this exercise, you will prepare a written summary of a television episode or book chapter (or excerpt), pointing out the discrepancies between what is portrayed and how a forensic team would operate in the real world. You will also describe, highlight, or focus on the role of the forensic anthropologist in the television episode or book chapter.

The television episodes are available on DVD, hulu.com, the television network’s website, Netflix or other on-demand television program providers, etc.

Television episodes may be accessed online through the following sites:
http://www.netflix.com/(requires subscription)
http://www.fox.com/bones/full-episodes (recommended)

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/csi/

You will prepare a 3–5 page report summarizing the show or chapter, analyzing it for its accuracy, and listing recommendations for making the portrayal of forensic anthropologists and forensic scientists more realistic.

CSI episode analysis Season 1, Episode 22