MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FINGERPRINTS
In this foundational module, you will explore the history and physiological development of fingerprint formation, the role of fingerprint bureaus, the principles of fingerprint examination, and the significance of fingerprints in personal identification. The module also covers the classification of pattern types and pattern areas, fingerprint searching techniques, and recording fingerprints using the traditional inked impression method. You will gain the knowledge and skills required to work with fingerprint evidence and contribute to the resolution of criminal cases.
MODULE 2 – FINGERPRINT CLASSIFICATION
In this module, you will be introduced to the history and significance of fingerprint identification, Sir Francis Galton's fingerprint classification system, and the study of ridge characteristics, including ridge counting and ridge tracing techniques. The module also covers the study of the Henry System of Classification to categorize fingerprints, along with Single Digit Classification where the process is narrowed down to classifying individual digits. And finally, you will gain insights about the extension of the Henry System and how it adapts to the modern fingerprint identification system.
MODULE 3 – TYPES OF FINGERPRINTS
The module explores different types of fingerprints, their historical importance, and fingerprint categorization, including chance or latent prints (invisible prints usually created by sweat), patent prints (visible prints usually created by ink, grease, dirt, or blood), and plastic prints (leave intended impressions on soft surfaces like wax, clay, or paint). You will also learn about the composition of sweat, which is a crucial component of fingerprints and plays a vital role in their formation.
MODULE 4 – DEVELOPMENT OF LATENT FINGERPRINTS
In this module, you will learn about the development and preservation of latent fingerprints, factors affecting their development, developing prints using powder methods (gray, black, aluminum flake, granular, magnetic, fluorescent, and others), and fuming methods (iodine fuming, cyanoacrylate or super glue, osmium tetroxide, hydrofluoric acid, mercuric iodide, ruthenium tetroxide, radioactive sulphur dioxide, and other fuming agents).
After this, you will learn about chemical development methods like ninhydrin, DFO, 1,2-indanedione, 5-methylthioninhydrin, silver nitrate, physical developer, vacuum metal deposition (VMD), sudan black, small particle reagent (SPR), dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC), crystal violet, and several other chemical methods.
The module also explores the application of LASER and other radiations to develop prints, the metal deposition method for lifting latent prints from skin, and techniques to lift and preserve fingerprints.
MODULE 5 – RECORDING AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS
This module covers fingerprints and their various facets, including the history of fingerprint identification, techniques to record fingerprints from both living and deceased individuals, the challenges involved, and the difference between class characteristics and individual characteristics of fingerprints. You will also learn about methods used to compare fingerprints, techniques to identify matches and discrepancies, and advanced techniques like biometric recording and identification of fingerprints and how such technologies are revolutionizing the field of fingerprint analysis.
MODULE 6 – POROSCOPY AND ISSUES IN FINGERPRINT SCIENCE
In this module, you will learn the significance of poroscopy and its evolution over the years, their use in establishing biological relationships, the identification of twin fingerprints, and analyzing similarities and differences in identical and fraternal twins' fingerprints. The module then explores the concept of fingerprint forgery, the challenges and techniques involved while imitating the original prints, and finally, you will gain insights about problems faced while recording and examining fingerprints, thereby providing a deep understanding of this field.
MODULE 7 – IDENTIFICATION, EVALUATION AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS THROUGH AUTOMATED FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AFIS)
This module covers the advanced Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and its multifaceted functionalities. You will learn about its historical evolution, role in modern law enforcement and forensic science, and its functioning in quickly and accurately identifying individuals.
The Automated Fingerprint Identification System's inner workings are explored, with an emphasis on the enrollment phase, where fingerprints are initially recorded, and the identification phase, where matches are sought and confirmed. Additionally, it covers the concepts of the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), Next Generation Identification, and the legal necessities associated with the use of AFIS to maintain individuals’ rights and privacy.
MODULE 8 – OTHER IMPRESSIONS
In this module, you will learn about prints other than fingerprints, like footprints and shoe prints, including their historical significance, gait pattern analysis, casting and lifting of footprint and shoe print impressions, techniques to identify, preserve, and evaluate these impressions; lip prints, including their history, classification, methods of recording lip prints, and techniques to examine their unique features; and finally, palm prints, including their historical significance and division of palm prints and their forensic significance.
MODULE 9 – LEGAL PERSPECTIVES OF FINGERPRINT
In this module, you will learn about the legal aspects associated with fingerprint analysis and the legal framework that governs the collection, analysis, and presentation of fingerprints as evidence in various contexts. The module also explores the role of fingerprint experts in court, their responsibilities, their presentation as expert testimony, and the role they play during legal proceedings. Finally, the module concludes with fingerprint report writing skills you need to know, highlighting the importance of accurate and clear documentation in the forensic analysis process and how to effectively communicate your findings in court.