TEST INFORMATION
TEST OVERVIEW
TEST DESCRIPTION
The Footwear Comparison Proficiency Test assesses participants' ability to accurately identify and analyze footwear impressions and to reach conclusive determinations regarding matches or exclusions. Through the integration of questions and known impressions, coupled with acetate overlays, participants are challenged to apply their forensic footwear examination expertise to realistic scenarios.
The Footwear Comparison Proficiency Test is structured with the following key components:
1. Known Outsole: Participants are presented with known outsole samples to serve as baseline references for comparison and analysis.
2. Known Standards: Four known impressions are provided to participants, representing standard references typically obtained from suspects or individuals related to the case. Each RS&A Footwear Comparison PT includes two known impressions per shoe, enabling thorough comparison with questioned impressions.
3. Questioned Impressions: Each test includes a minimum of six unknown footwear impressions sourced from crime scenes or evidence. These impressions are meticulously photographed from various angles, including heel, toe, and overall light directions. Participants are tasked with scrutinizing these question impressions against known exemplars to determine potential matches or exclusions.
4. Acetate Overlays: Participants receive acetate overlays as part of the test materials, facilitating detailed comparison by allowing superimposition of question impressions over known standards. This aids in the comprehensive analysis of key features.
FOOTWEAR COMPARISON PROFICIENCY TEST DEMO PACKET (PDF)
Sample PDF Includes:
- - Instruction sheet.
- - Test images. (Physical, Question, and Known)
- - Manufacturer Information Report.
- - Individual Report.
- - Summary Report.
TESTING PROCESS
COMPLETE PROFICIENCY TEST WITHIN THE TIME GIVEN
RS&A announces the dates for all proficiency testing cycles, which encompass the deadline for entering results.
ENTER YOUR RESULTS IN THE RS&A PT PORTAL
Through the RS&A PT Portal, proficiency test administrators can allocate their purchased PTs based on the anticipated distribution dates for the respective test cycle. Participants will be notified once a proficiency test has been assigned to them. Upon logging in to the portal, participants can submit their test results and any comments they wish to provide.
MANUFACTURER'S REPORT
The RS&A Manufacturer's Information Report outlines the expected response set by RS&A during both internal and external pre-distribution testing.
INDIVIDUAL REPORT
The RS&A Individual Report contrasts the results submitted by participants with the expected results set by RS&A.
SUMMARY REPORT
RS&A is dedicated to continuous improvement and to providing high-quality forensic products and services, with particular emphasis on proficiency testing. We recognize the critical importance of properly utilizing published Proficiency Testing Results, as they can either support or undermine the credibility of impression evidence sciences. Often, these results are utilized by various stakeholders, including defense attorneys, to challenge forensic identification specialists.
A longstanding challenge in this domain has been the absence of essential contextual data accompanying raw proficiency test results. Without insights into participants' credentials, experience, and agency processes, published results lack meaningful interpretation. To address this, participants must complete a brief online demographics survey before submitting their test results. The information gathered, combined with data from other participants, will empower RS&A to furnish the forensic identification industry with comprehensive insights long overdue.
By ensuring that published data is not only accurate but also contextually rich, we strive to enhance the integrity and relevance of proficiency testing outcomes for all stakeholders.
MEDIA OPTIONS & PRICING
MEDIA OPTIONS AND PRICING
SHIPPING
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