Introduction

This online course is being offered as an introductory level course designed to give the student a basic understanding of firearm and toolmark identification.  The units found within this course will cover the history of firearm and ammunition development, classification of firearms and ammunition components, test firing, proper methods of evidence collection, laboratory testing, microscopic identification, and much more.

Background
The topic of firearms identification can cover a very large array of material.  The intricate details involved in the making of such a simple looking weapon can be taken for granted.  In order to understand how a modern firearm operates, one must become familiar with the hundreds of years of history, modifications, and improvements that have led up to this point.

Course Goal
The goal of this course is to provide a basic understanding of firearm and toolmark identification.  The units found within this course will cover the history of firearm and ammunition development, classification of firearms and ammunition components, test firing, proper methods of evidence collection, laboratory testing, microscopic identification, and much more. 

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Follow the process of identifying a particular firearm.
• Discuss each of the cartridge case components.
• Properly collect and preserve firearm evidence from a crime scene.
• Describe the different laboratory tests that are performed for firearm related evidence.
• Explain the creation and examination of toolmarks.
• Discuss expert witness testimony in regards to firearm evidence.

Course Structure and Schedule
This is a non-credit course offering 3.1 ILUs. Average completion time for the course is 26 hours.  The instructor should be notified if an extension is required.  The course cost is $199 per registration, and a certificate for course completion will be issued to the student. 

Public Laboratory Employees are funded by NIJ Award 2001-RC-CX-K003 and 2003-RC-CX-K001. A $30 processing fee will be charged to the Individual for any student that doesn't access or finish the class in the time alloted.  See below on how to register.

Overview/Subject Matter

1. General History and Background Information
2. Firearm Identification
3. Cartridge Nomenclature
4. Test-Firing
5. Proper Crime Scene Documentation and Evidence Handling
6. Toolmarks, Part I:  Bullets & Cartridge Cases
7. Toolmarks, Part II:  Non-Firearm-Related Toolmarks & Evidence
8. Shooting Reconstruction
9. Laboratory Testing
10. Firearm Accessories
11. Microscopic Identification
12. Databases and Resources
13. Standardization and Legal Issues

Prerequisites

No prerequisites or course materials are required for the course.

Computer Requirements

• Internet Explorer
• Adobe Acrobat
• QuickTime Player
• Macromedia Flash Player
• Java version 5.0

(Free software plug-ins are available in the Getting Started area of the course.

Basic computer skills required (i.e. turning on your computer, navigating to websites, etc.) The course is user-friendly but support is available if needed.

Materials

All required readings are provided in PDF format. There is no required text.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to have access to an IBIS, NIBIN, or other firearm associated databases?No. The course is set up so that any references made to those types of databases are provided through animations and screen shots.Q: Do I qualify for NIJ funding?If you are in any type of forensic public sector, you qualify. NIJ provides funds so that forensic scientists, law enforcement, crime scene personnel, and related professionals can receive proper training. The exceptions are individuals working in the private sector, federally funded employees, and individuals working in academia.Q: Is there a required text?No, however there is a bibliography within the course that provides citations for sources used within the content. For further reading and learning, these references may be of use.
Q: Do I need to be technically savvy?As long as you have basic computer skills (i.e. turning on your computer, navigating to websites, etc) you will be fine. The course is user-friendly but support is available if needed.
Q: How long will it take for me to complete the course?On average, the course can be completed in approximately 26 hours. Students work at their own pace and convenience and may work as much or as little as they would like during each session.  The student has until the end of the semester to complete the course, although extensions may be granted upon request.
Q: What level is this course geared toward?This course is at an introductory level. It is a useful tool for anyone who would like to learn more about firearms and toolmark examination or would like a refresher on the topic.
Q: Who should I contact for more information?Instructor:  Dade Chisler, at dade.chisler@mail.wvu.edu or (304) 293-8533

Registration

Public laboratory employees are funded by NIJ Award 2001-RC-CX-K003 and 2003-RC-CX-K001.  Please fill out the Supervisor Approval Form and fax or mail it.  No other form is required to register.  Students that submit a Supervisor Approval Form will receive registration confirmation by email showing a charge of $199.  Please disregard this charge if you are a public laboratory employee funded by the NIJ Award.  When WVU Extended Learning receives the Supervisor Approval Form, you will receive class access information by email within 5 business days. If you are not notified, please contact WVU Extended Learning at (800) 253-2762 or (304) 293-7570.

Others:  Register online through our secure server or fill out this form and fax or mail it to Extended Learning.  You will be given class access by email within five working days.  Call 1-800-2Learn2, or email WVUEnrich@mail.wvu.edu if you have any questions.  Major credit cards and electronic checks are accepted.

Refund Policy
A $30 processing fee will be charged to the individual for any student that does not access or finish the class in the time allotted.

All requests for cancellations/refunds must be in writing.  Requests must be made within one week from when the class access information was emailed to the student.  Mail to:  WVU Extended Learning, P.O. Box 6800, Morgantown, WV, 26506 or email to WVUEnrich@mail.wvu.edu.