A prototype fact sheet designed for the development of a forensic computerized information system at Valkenberg and Lentegeur Hospitals

Hansson, Desiree Shaun

A prototype fact sheet designed for the development of a forensic computerized information system at Valkenberg and Lentegeur Hospitals

Master Thesis

1987

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Psychology

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

The discussion in this paper centers around the development of a paper-and-pencil fact sheet for collecting and systematizing forensic case material. This paper-and-pencil device is the prototype fact sheet that will be used to collect the data to form a computerized, forensic information system. The system, known as FOCIS, the Forensic Computerized Information System, will serve the largest Forensic Unit in the Western Cape, at Valkenberg Hospital, and the new unit that is being developed at Lentegeur Hospital. FOCIS will comprise case material from all forensic referrals to these two hospitals, under the present law: Sections 77, 78 and 79 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of the 1st of July 1977. Additionally, FOCIS will develop dynamically, continuing to incorporate case material as referrals are made to these hospitals. The estimated 7500 cases that will constitute FOCIS by the time this project is completed, include all of the officially classified population groups of South Africa, i.e. the so-called 'black', 'coloured' and 'white' groups [POPULATION REGISTRATION ACT, 1982]. The prototype fact sheet has a schematic layout and uses a mixed-format for data collection, i.e. checklists, multiple choice answer-options and semi-structured narrative text.