IMPLEMENTATION OF FORENSIC BALLISTICS LABORATORY ACTIVITIES AND STUDENTS' PERFORMANCE: INPUTS FOR AN ENHANCED INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY

This descriptive-correlational study assessed the impact of forensic ballistics laboratory activities on the instructional delivery for criminology students. The study involved 102 graduating students from Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology (KCAST) in Davao del Norte and Kolehiyo ng Pantukan (KNP) in Davao de Oro, both located in Region XI. The laboratory activities included firearm identification, firearm comparison, fired bullets examination, and projectile examination, all of which are crucial components of forensic ballistics. The results showed that the implementation of these activities positively affected the students' understanding and performance in forensic ballistics. Based on these findings, several recommendations were proposed to enhance instructional delivery. The study suggests incorporating more crime laboratory activities and using a variety of laboratory tools and chemicals for a comprehensive understanding. It also recommends grading these activities separately to provide a clearer assessment of student performance. The study highlights the need for instructional materials focused on measuring bore diameter and the use of magnification tools to assess firearm characteristics more effectively. In examining cartridge cases, the study suggests using instructional materials that provide basic knowledge and incorporating activities that focus on marks produced by the firearm. Additionally, the use of a comparison microscope is recommended to enhance accuracy. The examination of projectiles, the study recommends using a micrometer for precise measurements and comparing test bullets with standard ones to improve students' skills in forensic ballistics. These recommendations aim to improve the overall instructional delivery in forensic ballistics education.