Why should I choose CSOC for my crime scene proficiency testing?

Crime Scene On-Call (CSOC) provides a unique test environment that ensures every participant a standardized, controlled and consistent proficiency test experience. Our test is significantly more cost effective than setting up a mock scene, or having a supervisor evaluate an investigator in the field. Options like these can consume valuable manpower without ensuring each participant a standardized test. And because our solution is so cost effective, you can afford to provide more of your crime scene personnel a valuable training and testing experience.

How does this test work?

The CSOC proficiency test experience is divided into four parts: orientation, training, testing, and feedback. During orientation, you will be introduced to the Second Life program and some commonly encountered features. Next, you will participate in a series of exercises in CSOC's training area. These exercises will familiarize you with the necessary tools and techniques needed to process the crime scene. After training, you'll move on to the proficiency test portion of the process - a virtual crime scene. Finally, CSOC welcomes your feedback at the conclusion of the scene processing.

Why does CSOC use Second Life?

Hundreds of leading universities and other school systems around the world use Second Life as a part of their educational programs. Since 2007, CSOC has continued to develop a virtual crime scene atmosphere utilizing the Second Life platform. Our virtual crime scene proficiency tests provide a convenient and economical alternative to traditional test methods.

How much time is needed to complete the test?

For first time users of CSOC, we recommend planning to spend a solid morning or afternoon in our training area. Since the training area teaches participants how to use their crime scene skills in CSOC's virtual crime scene environment, it is an important step to successfully completing the proficiency test. Repeat users will usually require a quick refresher of perhaps one hour in the training area.

As for the proficiency test itself, the time it will take the participant depends on the skill sets that are being tested. The typical experience of a participant testing all of the offered skill sets is about six hours plus report preparation time. This time can be easily managed if divided over two successive days.

Do I need to do the training part of the test?

CSOC highly recommends participation in all of the training exercises we've created. Even if you are an experienced user of Second Life, there are some important, new tools that you will need to become proficient with before taking the test. Skipping the training will not improve your score.

Will it work on my computer?

A computer with high speed Internet access is required to take the CSOC proficiency test.  Some agencies may need the assistance of their IT department. Our website provides guidance on resolving IT issues Request to IT Department. Further details on PC requirements can be found at Second Life System Requirements. 

Is CSOC an approved proficiency test provider?

Yes. CSOC is an ASCLD/LAB approved provider in the area of crime scene proficiency testing.

Will everyone who uses CSOC use the same virtual crime scene?

Yes. Everyone using our proficiency test during each test cycle will use a copy of the same scene. The scene will be changed after each testing period.

When will I learn my test results?

At the end of each test cycle, CSOC will publish test results and provide a copy of the results to each participating agency.

Can only crime labs use CSOC's virtual crime scenes?

Our first priority is to serve our crime lab customers. CSOC is developing educational offerings using our virtual crime scene technology for use by institutions offering forensic science programs. Please contact us for an update.

What if our personnel perform different crime scene tasks than other laboratories? What skills does the test focus on?

CSOC's crime scene proficiency test focuses on photography, sketching/diagramming, and evidence collection. Based on the participant's job duties, agencies may choose any or all of the three test components.

Do you have a question for CSOC that was not answered above? 

Second Life is a trademark of Linden Research Inc. Crime Scene On-Call, L.L.C. is not affiliated with or sponsored by Linden Research Inc.