Shaping societies

Disciplinary literacy in forensic science

Abstract

Communities sometimes use forensic science to help make decisions as to whether an individual’s actions violated the laws or rules of the community. Since forensic science is sometimes used to influence decision making in these cases, communication of forensic science may impact people’s lives. Disciplinary literacy in forensic science explores the unique ways that forensic science texts are created and understood across diverse participants. This article describes a study that examines what filed Court of Appeals or Court of Special Appeals documents in the United States reveal about disciplinary literacy in forensic science. Understanding the methods of communication surrounding forensic science may better equip communities to make informed decisions about the laws and rules that shape societies.