Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: In recent years, crime fiction has been increasingly used a didactic tool. However, most courses and analyses of crime fiction have been offered by English departments, not criminal justice. This paper extends our individual and collective understanding of crucial issues in homeland security and the criminal justice system by exploring the unique contributions of fiction. The study of homeland security is a critical segment in the study of criminal justice. The old rules and standards are being questioned, and the approach to teaching this aspect of our discipline needs to keep pace.
The findings of this study suggest that there are, in many cases, similarities between the fiction presented in current novels and the issues that confront the criminal justice system in developing a new homeland security strategy. While fiction writers often oversimplify the aims, complexities and dynamics of homeland security, it does serve as a valuable didactic tool in developing critical thinking among students. Criminal justice programs and professors would be well advised to incorporate crime and legal fiction into their curriculum and didactic process.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: This presentation provides interactive approaches to teach critical elements of social science at the undergraduate level: the scientific method, measurement, and information literacy. Whole-class and small-group activities for the scientific method and measurement allow instrutors to activate students' intuitive understanding of these concepts and connect it to the technical and conceptual tools that the social sciences provide. Working with the ACRL's Research Competency Guidelines as benchmark standards, student worksheets present core skills in an accessible and assess-able manner.

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Publication Type: Roundtable
Abstract: Discussion of the training, support and implementation of a standards-based, formative assessment tool during the student-teaching semester. Initial data analysis revealed a shift from group concerns to a focus on individual students.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Discussion of a collaboratively developed digital portfolio assessment initiative and the new dimension this process has brought to our teaching as a result of in-depth student work sample evaluation.