Human factors encompass the psychological and physiological attributes that affect a system or process. For forensic practitioners, understanding these factors can significantly enhance their work quality and reliability. The sourcebook, developed by a collaborative team of forensic science practitioners and cognitive psychologists, aims to:
- Describe the state of knowledge of human factors as applied to forensic practice.
- Guide forensic laboratories to consider human factors to improve forensic science practice.
- Inform researchers and funders about research gaps that could be addressed in the application of cognitive psychology to forensic practice.
Here are some key takeaways from the sourcebook that can help forensic practitioners improve their skills:
1. Implement Research-Based Tools for Personnel Selection and Assessment
Each forensic discipline requires a unique set of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs). The sourcebook emphasizes the importance of using job analysis to determine these requirements and developing predictors of employee performance. Forensic science managers are encouraged to employ valid selection and assessment programs using proven methods. Continued research should focus on developing personnel assessment tools tailored to each forensic science discipline.
2. Embrace Errors During Training
Contrary to traditional beliefs, errors during training can be beneficial. Research from cognitive psychology demonstrates that individuals learn most effectively when they are challenged and make errors, provided they receive prompt and reliable feedback. While errors should be avoided during casework, they should be expected and leveraged as learning opportunities during training. This approach ensures that practitioners are well-prepared and resilient.
3. Address Cognitive Bias and Improve Decision-Making
Forensic disciplines rely heavily on the expertise of examiners. However, human cognition and decision-making have limitations. Cognitive psychology research can help identify ways to make forensic analysis practices more compatible with human cognitive strengths and weaknesses. This includes understanding how perception, memory, and reasoning can be influenced by various factors and finding ways to mitigate these influences.
4. Manage Stressors in Forensic Organizations
Forensic practitioners often face significant stressors, such as exposure to gruesome events, adversarial court processes, heavy caseloads, and long work hours. Effective management strategies, including transparency and cultural improvements, can mitigate the impact of these stressors. Forensic laboratories should strive to be high-reliability organizations committed to continuous improvement both operationally and culturally.
5. Enhance Communication During Forensic Investigations
Clear and effective communication is crucial throughout all stages of a forensic investigation. Forensic scientists must communicate accurately and comprehensibly with colleagues, investigators, and the court. The sourcebook highlights the importance of consistent reporting language and effective communication strategies to ensure the reliability of forensic results.
By implementing these insights from cognitive psychology and human factors research, forensic practitioners can enhance their skills, improve the reliability of their work, and contribute to the advancement of forensic science. Continued collaboration between cognitive scientists and the forensic community is essential for ongoing improvements in this field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Overview of special issue: Human factors in forensic science practice sourcebook.
