Forensics chapter 1 key terms

analytical skill

the ability to identify a concept or problem, to isolate its component parts, to organize information for decision making, to establish criteria for evaluation, and to draw appropriate conclusions

deductive reasoning

deriving a conclusion from the facts using a series of logical steps

eyewitness

a person who has seen someone or something related to a crime and can communicate his or her observations

fact

a statement of information that can be verified

Foresnic science

using science to help resolve legal matters

Hypothesis

a possible explanation of a question or problem based on prior knowledge

logical

based on clear reasoning of the facts

observation

what a person perceives using his or her senses

opinion

belief founded on judgment rather than on direct experience or knowledge

Perception

the brain's interpretation of a situation based on opinions, judgment, and personal kexperiences