EMBAR

Author:
Mudassir Nasir Ph.D., Ali Anslem Ph.D., Prof. Akoji Ocheja
Department of Criminology and Security Studies, Iconic Open University Sokoto

DOI: doi.org/10.58924/rjhss.v5.iss1.p6

Published Date: 12-Feb, 2026

Keywords: Criminology and Security Studies Education (CSSE), Experiential Learning Theory (ELT), Pedagogy, Forensic Crime Laboratory, Tertiary Institutions

Abstract:
This study addresses the significant pedagogical gap between theoretical criminology and security studies education (CSSE) and the applied realities of forensic science within the justice system. Despite graduates often forming the first line of personnel at crime scenes, curricula have traditionally underutilised forensic laboratories as experiential learning resources. This research proposes a structured model for integrating forensic crime laboratory practice into Criminology and Security Studies Education (CSSE), grounded in Kolb’s experiential learning cycle. Employing a qualitative case-study design, the research conducted a directed content analysis of publicly available academic curricula and professional standards documents from bodies like Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC), and European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI). The analysis identifies how core forensic crime principles, methodological rigor, evidence reliability, chain of custody can be explicitly integrated to bridge the theory-practice. Findings advocate for a transformative pedagogical framework where hands-on forensic crime engagement facilitates concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualisation, and active experimentation. This model cultivates essential professional competencies, including scientific literacy, critical evidence evaluation, ethical reasoning, and communication skills. The study concludes by proposing an organogram for a tertiary institutions-based forensic criminology laboratory, detailing a hybrid structure of academic oversight, scientific operations, and student integration. This structured approach aims to enhance educational outcomes and workforce readiness, ultimately positioning the forensic laboratory as a vital nexus for synthesizing science, theory, and justice in CSSE.

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