Introductory description

This foundational module aims to provide students with a sound introduction to the study of Law at Warwick. It aims to explore the meaning of Law in Context as a concept and approach. It will also incorporate an understanding of English legal method within the institutional context of the English Legal System and engage with the importance of legal theory in this regard.
Particular attention is given to considering sources of law, the techniques of reading critically both academic material and legal texts (cases and statutes), understanding legal rhetoric, the role of theory, and how to make an argument and essay writing.
These various aspects of the module will provide a critical overview of the machinery of justice at the heart of the English legal system and provide students with a fluency in fundamental legal techniques and an understanding of law and theory. The subjects will be developed through participatory and problem based exercises in workshops (of approximately 25-30 students) whereby students will have the opportunity to test and develop their fundamental legal skills as well as other core skills, which they will utilise throughout their legal studies. They will be complemented by regular lectures.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The problem based workshop format supported by regular focused lectures (addressing both the practices and theories of law) will address the following topics through problem based learning and a focus on real and constructed cases:

1. The meaning and value of law in context
2. Encountering gender, race, class and sexuality
3. The operation of legal systems and the English system in particular
4. Sources of law including human rights and international law as well as traditions, literature (academic and otherwise) and other forms of thought
5. Theories of law
6. Legal skills, their form and application: from critical reading and interpretation to problem analysis and solving to oral and written presentation.
7. Understanding the political, economic, historical, international, social and other contexts through the examination of particular cases and materials.

Each ‘case’ or ‘problem’ will provide the basis for exploring these issues by developing scenarios and providing the opportunity for students to engage with both theory and practice, allowing them to apply skills in this context whilst also analysing and reflecting on that application.
The lecture series will provide insights into the practices and theories of law, framing the subject matter, whilst the facilitated workshops will engage students in learning about these matters through group analysis of problems.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Ability to demonstrate good knowledge of Law in Context as a concept, including what can be learned from adopting such an approach in the analysis of law
• Ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the English legal system, including its institutions, procedures and sources of law
• Demonstrate knowledge of the underlying concepts, values and principles associated with law, justice and ethics, and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within their multiple contexts
• Show knowledge and understanding of the cultural, political, social and philosophical underpinnings and contexts of the law
• Think systematically about the role of law in politics and society
• Develop written and oral presentation skills in the analysis, preparation and presentation of legal theory and philosophy
• Understand and critically evaluate the English Legal system
• Explain coherently current developments relating to the areas studied in the module
• Demonstrate good problem solving, research and writing skills, including analytical skills and the ability to construct and substantiate a comprehensive scholarly argument
• Demonstrate good discussion and communication skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with others

Indicative reading list

Yet to be determined

Research element

Legal research required into topics covered by problem based learning scenarios and cases

Interdisciplinary

Students will consider some philosophical, political and other disciplines as they impact on law and legal systems

International

Students will consider the impact and influence of international legal standards and debates on the UK legal system

Subject specific skills

Written and oral presentation skills in the analysis, preparation and presentation of legal theory and philosophy.
Legal research
Legal analysis
Legal writing

Transferable skills

Written and oral presentation skills.
Critical analysis.
Problem solving, research skills, including analytical skills and the ability to construct and substantiate a comprehensive scholarly argument.
Discussion and communication skills.
Working collaboratively with others.