Short Wave A Short Wave Guide To Good — And Bad — TV Forensics
Feb 28, 2020
Raychelle Burks, a forensic chemist and professor at St. Edward's University, combines her love for murder mysteries with her expertise in forensic science. She discusses how crime shows often exaggerate forensic techniques, contrasting dramatic portrayals with real-life practices. Raychelle also shares insights into her consulting work for TV, emphasizing the balance between storytelling and scientific accuracy. Finally, she explores how these shows influence viewers' understanding and enjoyment of crime, sparking educational discussions in classrooms.
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Career Shift
- Raychelle Burks initially wanted to be a lawyer as a child, reading law books every Saturday.
- An 8th-grade trip to Washington, D.C., and an introduction to forensic science changed her career path.
CSI Reality Check
- Real crime scene investigators primarily focus on evidence collection and analysis, not investigations.
- They work in the background, providing technical expertise rather than interviewing suspects.
Spotting Good Forensics
- To spot realistic forensic science on TV, look for shows where the forensic team isn't the main focus.
- Shows like Law and Order and The Wire portray forensic science more accurately.