·         To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the domain of computer forensics. ·         To instruct students in the tools and techniques that will allow them to identify and extract evidence from computer media. ·         To equip students with an in depth knowledge of the processes whereby material extracted from computer media can be assessed and judged for evidentiary purposes. ·         To provide students with a complete understanding of the process of documenting computer forensic evidence.

(LO1) A deep and critical understanding of the theory and practice of computer forensics.

(LO2) A complete understanding of the processes for digital evidence acquisition, authentication, analysis, and auditing.

(LO3) A systematic understanding of the use of computer forensic tools to carry out digital forensic investigations.

(LO4) An ability to conduct digital forensic investigations with respect to a variety of computer platforms.

(LO5) A critical comprehension of the legal framework within which the discipline of computer forensics operates (with respect to a number of different countries).

(LO6) In the context of computer forensics, be able to differentiate between ethical issues, legal issues, and criminal motives.

(LO7) A critical awareness of future trends in computer forensics.

(S1) Organisational skills

(S2) Communication skills

(S3) IT skills

(S4) Communication and collaboration online participating in digital networks for learning and research

(S5) Learning skills online studying and learning effectively in technology-rich environments, formal and informal

Week 1:  Digital Evidence, Computer Crime, Technology, and Law Acquisition, authentication and analysis of digital evidence. Comparison of the technology and legal framework for different countries.   Week 2:  The Investigative Process, Reconstruction, and Modus Operandi The digital evidence investigative process; investigative reconstruction; and "modus operandi", motive, and technology.   Week 3:  Applying Forensic Science to Computers The role of digital evidence in court trials and the application of forensic science to computers.   Week 4:  Investigating Windows Computers and Network Forensics Forensic investigation technologies for computers running the Microsoft Windows™ Operating Systems.   Week 5:  Investigation Unix Systems, Macintosh Systems, and Handheld Devices Forensic investigation technologies for UNIX systems, Macintosh systems, and handheld devices.   Week 6:  Network Forensics I Network basics for digital investigations and network forensic techniques on physical and data-link layers.   Week 7:  Network Forensics II Comparison of network forensics at the network, transport, session, presentation and application layers.   Week 8:  Computer Crime Investigation and Career Development Guidelines for computer crime investigation, career development as a computer forensic investigator, and future trends of computer forensics.

Teaching Method 1 - Online Learning
Description: Weekly seminar supported by asynchronous discussion in a virtual classroom environment facilitated by an online instructor.