13 June 2006

Academic awarded for research on improving jury service

Winner of the University of Canberra's Vice-Chancellor's Distinction Award for Creativity and Innovation in Research and Enterprise, Dr David Tait, is investigating the use of visual technologies in courts and the impact these have on jury decision making.  

The Australian Research Council funded project, undertaken with colleagues at Canberra, Melbourne Monash, UNSW and Central Queensland, examines how crime scene reconstructions and computer simulations may better inform juries, but potentially increase prejudice against defendants.

The criminal 'hearing' is becoming increasingly a 'viewing' with the use of maps, scientific charts, photos, closed-circuit television frames and video re-enactments. With virtual reality technologies and holograms on the horizon Dr Tait said there are fears it could be too persuasive.

"Juries can be 'mesmerised' by high-tech displays and find the expert presenting it more credible than thy might otherwise, or they might simply pay more attention to information presented in this form, particularly if they are generation X-ers," Dr Tait said.

In addition, many current courts are ill equipped to support new display technologies and the study will identify protocols for modifying courts to support effective use of interactive visual technologies.

The interdisciplinary project draws together expertise from architects, judges, court artists, lawyers and psychologists.   Partners include the Australian Federal Police, the Department of Public Prosecutions (ACT), Integrated Media, Hanson & Associates, PTW Architects and Lyons Architects.

UC Communications

Gaye Morrison
T: 02 6201 5855
M: 0409 470 755

Kaddie Pass
T: 02 6201 2681

For further information about Monitor Online, contact the editor: monitor@canberra.edu.au

Copyright © 2005 University of Canberra

Last Updated on August 1, 2005