Activities Designed for Fingerprint Dusting and the Chemical Revelation of Latent Fingerprints

Abstract

This article describes two different latent fingerprint revelation activities that have similar organization structures and pedagogy methodologies. The two activities feature the use of multiple stations to allow students to test, compare, and contrast different fingerprint revelation techniques. Both activities adopt a structured-inquiry pedagogical methodology that invites students to form their own opinions on the strengths and weaknesses of each technique. Fingerprint dusting techniques are more accessible because there is less need for fume hoods and protective safety equipment. The chemical revelation of latent prints techniques are more suited for a laboratory environment where fume hoods and protective safety equipment are available.