Assignment Title: Creating an Informational Flyer on False Memory and Eyewitness

Assignment Title: Creating an Informational Flyer on False Memory and Eyewitness Testimony
 
Objective:
To help students understand the complexities of memory and the implications of eyewitness testimony, as well as to highlight the importance of accurately assessing these elements in the justice system.
 
Background:
In this assignment, you’ll use insights from the “60 Minutes” segment on Ronald Cotton to create an informational flyer aimed at educating judges and juries about false memories and eyewitness testimony. Ronald Cotton’s story is a compelling case study on the impact of mistaken identity and the fallibility of human memory in the legal system.
 
Instructions:
 
Watch the 60 Minutes Segment:
 
Watch both parts of the “60 Minutes” segment on Ronald Cotton and Jennifer Thompson. This is a legal case that happened right here in NC, and resulted in legal changes in how you will be interviewed by law enforcement. This can typically be found online through streaming services or on the official “60 Minutes” website. Here is a link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-SBTRLoPuo
 
Research and Understand the Concepts:
 
Review key concepts related to memory, including false memories, the malleability of eyewitness accounts, and the psychological factors that can affect testimony.
Look into relevant research studies and psychological theories that pertain to memory accuracy and witness reliability.
Create an Informational Flyer:
 
Target Audience: Judges and juries.
Content Requirements:
Overview of False Memory: Explain what false memories are and how they can form.
Eyewitness Testimony: Discuss the reliability of eyewitness testimony and factors that can influence its accuracy.
Implications for the Justice System: Highlight how misunderstanding these aspects can lead to wrongful convictions.
Practical Tips: Provide guidelines for judges and juries to help them assess the reliability of eyewitness testimony and understand the limitations of memory.
Design and Presentation:
 
Your flyer should be visually appealing and easy to read.
Must be written in your own words – do not copy and paste information (you won’t receive credit for cut and paste information).
Use clear headings, bullet points, and infographics where appropriate.
Include references to relevant studies or expert opinions to support your points.