This module introduces a range of approaches to legal research. It examines the importance and nature of legal research, foundational elements of legal research, and a variety of methods in legal research (such as doctrinal, theoretical, normative, comparative and socio-legal). The module will introduce postgraduate level legal research and methods with a particular focus on common law legal research and noting that some students will come from other jurisdictions with different legal research traditions. The module critically interrogates the underpinnings of each of the approaches used in legal research to uncover their advantages and disadvantages, and explore the connections and synergies between them. The module aims to improve student's comprehension of the variety of methods in legal research, allow them to make an informed initial choice of the methodological approach(es) for their own research (while being aware of its limitations and possible alternative methods), and assist them in translating their research interests into viable research projects including for their subsequent dissertation.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand the key elements of legal research;
Understand how to develop analysis and critical analysis by drawing on an authoritative evidence base.
Describe, explain, and compare the advantages and disadvantages of a range of research approaches to legal phenomena;
Make a well-reasoned choice of approach to legal research appropriate for their research project
Demonstrate effective and discerning use of digital and other resources when carrying out independent research in order to design an effective research project;
Understand the stages of a research project from design to completion.
Understand the need to observe ethical research practices and principles of academic integrity
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
5,000 word research proposal (including annotated bibliography) (100%)
