| Course Title: |
Internet for Investigations (full 12-week course)
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| Description: |
The Internet consists of over ten billion pages of information yet many investigators make only
superficial use of this amazing resource. The distinguishing feature of this course is that it was designed for investigators - those who need to search more aggressively and use information more carefully than the general public. The intention of this course is to turn those who already have some computer and Internet experience into power users of the Internet and to reveal how the Internet can augment their traditional investigative methodology. It covers not only technical issues, but includes how to formulate good search strategies and how to make sense of the results.
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| Course Learning Objectives: |
Students who receive credit for this course will have added one more tool to their investigative toolbox. They will be able to:
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1 |
Investigations & the Net (J. Pyrik) |
Provides a realistic idea of the strengths and limitations of the Net as an investigative aid. Includes:
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2 |
Searching 101 (J. Pyrik) |
An introduction to the basics. Includes:
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3 |
Searching 202 (J. Pyrik) |
Building on the foundation established in Searching 101, this module includes:
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4 |
Searching Smarter (J. Pyrik) |
This module delves into the parts of the Web that search engines can't penetrate. It also shows how to get relevant content pushed to your desktop and presents the Internet as a means to finding high-value primary sources of information. Topics covered include:
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5 |
Commercial Databases (C. Zeller) |
An introduction to commercial databases. Includes free access to a major commercial database (a $500 value).
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| "Profile" assignment due (worth 40% of the final course mark). |
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6 |
Privacy & Security (J. Pyrik) |
How to remain anonymous on the Web.
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7 |
Internet Tools (J. Pyrik) |
A survey of software utilities which can enhance use of the Internet. Includes:
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8 |
Cyberskepticism (J. Pyrik) |
Assessing reliability on the Net.
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9 |
Analysis (J. Pyrik) |
Filling in the missing pieces of the puzzle, including identifying the author of anonymous e-mail.
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10 |
Cybercrime (R. Gardner) |
How criminals and the police are using the Internet.
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