Forensic Anthropology Training Manual

Book excerpt: Provides basic information on successfully collecting, processing, analyzing, and describing skeletal human remains. Forensic Anthropology Training Manual serves as a practical reference tool and a framework for training in forensic anthropology. The first chapter informs judges, attorneys, law enforcement personnel, and international workers of the information and services available from a professional forensic anthropologist. The first section (Chapters 2-11) is a training guide to assist in the study of human skeletal anatomy. The second section (Chapters 12-17) focuses on the specific work of the forensic anthropologist, beginning with an introduction to the forensic sciences. Learning Goals Upon completing this book readers will be able to: Have a strong foundation in human skeletal anatomy Explain how this knowledge contributes to the physical description and personal identification of human remains Understand the basics of excavating a grave, preparing a forensic report, and presenting expert witness testimony in a court of law Define forensic anthropology within the broader context of the forensic sciences Describe the work of today’s forensic anthropologists