Module Specifications.
Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025
All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).
As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Date posted: September 2024
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Coursework Only As original |
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Description This module aims to introduce students to important legal doctrines and enable them to understand how to find, use and understand key legal sources. The module aims to equip students with important skills in terms of how to undertake library-based and empirical legal research. The module aims to acquaint students with the key concepts and philosophical foundations that underlie legal reasoning and the function and role of law in social life. The aim is to develop analytical techniques at the beginning of the programme, which will be developed as students progress through their degree. Small-group seminars will enable students to develop these skills. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Locate and utilise core legal sources in order to solve practical legal problems. 2. Locate and analyse case law and legislation. 3. Use legal databases 4. Undertake legal research both in terms of traditional library based research and empirical work (qualitative and quantitative). 5. Critically appraise the key concepts underlying legal reasoning. 6. Critically appraise the philosophical foundations of contemporary law. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Indicative topicsUncovering legal sources-how to use the law library. The use of legal databases and the Internet as a tool of legal research. Legal comprehension-reading legislation and case law, preparing case notes. Academic writing and research. Introduction to legal research methods. Quantitative legal research- interviewing, focus groups, case study research skills. Quantitative legal research- compiling and analysing statistical data, introduction to STATA. The process of law reform. Understanding legal reasoning. Law, justice and rights-the social bases of law; law as an instrument of social change; laws as an integrative mechanism; law, power and ideologyActivitiesStudents will be expected (via the guidelines, links and suggested readings on Moodle) to read case law and legislation, academic articles and core texts; participate in class discussions and keep abreast of ongoing developments in this area of law. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||