The exhibit, CSI: The Experience, immerses guests in hands-on science while leading them through the challenge of solving a crime mystery. The hands-on exhibit, opening May 25 at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, brings to life fundamental scientific principles, numerous scientific disciplines, and the most advanced technology and techniques used today by crime scene investigators and forensic scientists. Through hands-on activities featuring real equipment and multimedia presentations, guests will sample the following science fields and understand the significance of each in cracking crimes.
Scientific Objectives for Exhibit Guests:
1. Visitors will use the process of scientific inquiry to:
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Identify evidence at the crime scene and determine which clues need more detailed analyses.
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Analyze evidence in a multidisciplinary crime lab with the help of forensic specialists.
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Formulate a hypothesis about the crime based on their analyses.
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Validate and communicate the results of their investigation based on the scientific evidence.
2. Guests will use Scientific Inquiry in the Following Fields:
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DNA identification: understanding the fundamental applications of genetic biology and discoveries in DNA profiling that have greatly advanced forensic science;
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Toxicology: identifying the presence of drugs or poisons in body tissues, fluids and organs;
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Forensic anthropology: examining skeletal remains for forensic purposes;
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Forensic entomology: studying the presence of insects and or insect eggs in dead bodies to help determine the time or location of the death;
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Forensic pathology: looking for trauma or anomalies in the body’s systems that explain sickness or death;
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Forensic art: using an understanding of anatomy and physiology to create images;
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Firearm and toolmark identification: understanding the basic physics behind ballistics, and using observation skills to match patterns;
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Information technology: understanding the use of national databases, cell phones, cameras, e-mails and other digital technologies to track and investigate crimes.
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Latent prints: using chemistry to reveal fingerprints or handprints that are not visible to the naked eye.
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Blood spatter analysis: studying blood patterns to determine movement, speed, direction, location, which all to help identify what took place at the crime scene.
Tools and technologies in the exhibit:
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Video monitors with scenes from CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and real-life scientists talking about their areas of expertise
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Microscopes
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Magnifiers, templates
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Computer databases
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Personal computers with touch-screen technology
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UV light sources
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Cell phone seizure kit
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Chemistry equipment, reagents
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DNA instrument systems
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Ballistics identification systems and bullet trap
About the exhibit:
CSI: The Experience was developed by the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and Bob Weis Design Island Associates with support from CBS Consumer Products, the cast and crew of the television show, and the National Science Foundation. CSI: The Experience is an immersive, interactive forensic science exhibit related to the hit TV series that invites people to use real science to solve hypothetical crimes in an exciting multimedia environment.
At CSI: The Experience visitors will participate in forensic investigations and use scientific inquiry to solve crimes.
Goals for the Exhibit—CSI: The Experience
To advance critical thinking skills through forensic investigation, scientific inquiry, and technology.
To promote public awareness of modern advances in forensic science.
Our Educational Goals for Exhibit Visitors:
1. Visitors will understand the principles underlying the following areas of forensic science:
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DNA identification
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Toxicology
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Forensic anthropology
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Forensic entomology
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Forensic pathology
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Forensic art
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Firearm and toolmark identification
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Information technology
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Latent prints
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Blood spatter analysis
2. Visitors will use information technology in their investigations to:
• Simulate the analyses of clues using database technology.
• Comprehend the role of human judgment, even when using advanced technology.
• Compare historical methods of crime scene investigations with today’s advanced forensic sciences.
