The popularity of shows such as Bones, Body of Proof, Criminal Minds, NCIS, and CSI (all of them), adds to crime solving intrigue. Crime stories and mystery novels grasp the imagination by interlocking pure science with literary license. As a result there is a surge in students deciding to go into the forensic sciences. To feed that curiosity, the Franklin Institute has an interactive exhibit, CSI: The Experience, which gives inquiring minds an opportunity to learn the difference between real crime scene investigation and extravagant televised scripting.
According the Franklin Institute events site, “CSI: The Experience was developed by the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and Bob Weis Design Island Associates with support from CBS Consumer Products, the cast and crew of the television show, and the National Science Foundation.” (Marketing genius!) Rightfully titled, CSI: The Experience is a true experience.
Upon entry a short movie is shown introducing the visitor to the reality of crime scene investigation as a science rather than as entertainment. The visitor is then given a clipboard and given the number (1, 2, or 3) of the crime scene they will investigate. Crime scene #1 is surprisingly realistic. The sheet of paper on the clipboard begins the engagement. Initial processing of the crime scene requires the VCSI (visiting crime scene investigator) to document anything out of place, of note, or which could lead to the identification of the perpetrator.
Once the VCSI is comfortable that they have thoroughly documented all the details of the scene, the next stop is to proceed to the “Criminalistics Department: Las Vegas, Nevada”. There the space is set up as if it were right out of the show CSI on CBS. The labs are set up for interactive lessons on: DNA identification, toxicology, forensic anthropology, forensic entomology, forensic pathology, forensic art, firearm and tool mark identification, information technology, latent prints, and blood splatter analysis. The DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) lab, for example, explains DNA, its uses and limitations, and the best sources of DNA. The VCSI can then immediately use the information to take the next step in solving the crime.
The exhibit is very clear about the differences between real science and televised science. However, it does so without stripping the attendee of their fascination in forensic science shows like CSI. The educational experience ignites curiosity in children of all ages. Starting with the opening scene of the introductory clip, moving through every lab, hearing the “autopsy” results, and even lingering afterword, the VCSI is engaged.
The secrets told in this behind-the-science look increases the fascination rather than stifling it. After completing the exhibit, a 12-year-old child said, “I’m a rookie CSI! I can’t wait to tell my friends at school! This is so cool! I want to do it again!” A middle-aged looked at the child and said, “Me too!”
On Thursday, November 17, 2011, invited Dr. Walter I. Hofman,the first board certified forensic pathologist to hold the post of Coroner in Montgomery County and the only board-certified forensic pathologist coroner in all of Pennsylvania, in connection with the interactive exhibit – CSI: The Experience. Much like the tone of the exhibit, Dr. Hofman was informative and engaging. His personality and delivery made his presentation on the forensic sciences just as entertaining as an episode of CSI. Anya Belizzi of South Jersey submitted the following question: What is the most unforgettable discovery/finding you have made thus far? Watch the short clip of Dr. Hofman telling a true-story of the businessman who married his secretaries and the twist on the story.
CSI: The Experience is at the Franklin Institute until January 2, 2012. The exhibit takes about an hour if time is taken to participate in each aspect of the investigation. A perfect example of making learning fun, the exhibit sparks contagious curiosity. Tickets and details are available on the dedicated site. Taking a date, will open up dialogue and just may take you to the next level in the relationship. Taking your child will make you the “coolest parent in the world”.
Read the article on Dr. Walter Hofman's electrifying lecture
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