Forensic & Criminal Investigation students from Solihull College & University Centre recently took part in a live-action road traffic accident simulation, an annual highlight of their practical training.
Held at the College’s Blossomfield Campus, the exercise tasked students with managing and investigating a mock collision scene, mirroring real-world crime scene protocol.
Watch the students take part in a live road traffic collision simulation, putting theory into practice.
The simulation is an essential component of the two-year course, which combines Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Criminology, Psychology, and Law to prepare students for future careers in forensic science.
Working in small, focused teams, students were required to cordon off the area, collect evidence and process the scene meticulously. Among the materials gathered were fingerprints, liquid samples, DNA swabs, footprint impressions, and fragments of vehicle debris, all of which were returned to the campus laboratories for further analysis.
The hands-on investigation challenged students to apply forensic techniques under time pressure while developing critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork skills. As part of the process, they documented the scene through photographs and measurements and used scientific calculations to piece together the sequence of events.
Students investigate a simulated road traffic accident, gathering and analysing evidence as part of their Forensic & Criminal Investigation training.
Lecturer Balbinder Paneser, who supervised the exercise, explains: “This simulation reflects the complexity of real-life forensic work. It offers students the chance to engage with evidence collection and analysis in a realistic setting. The ability to interpret data accurately and draw conclusions under pressure is vital in this field, and exercises like these give our students a head start.”
As always, the simulation proved to be a valuable learning experience for students. The annual event is a core part of the course’s commitment to delivering career-focused, applied learning that equips students with the skills needed in today’s forensic and criminal investigation sectors.
