Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit is the first of two work placements that form part of the pathway for Indigenous students seeking access to the postgraduate law course. The unit gives students the opportunity to gain credit for supervised projects working in a legal environment within the public and private sectors. It provides students with an opportunity to apply, enhance and develop generic skills gained through their advanced diploma studies in a workplace context. The work placement offers students access to experience professional responsibilities in law and the legal system, and group and independent problem solving; and exposure to workplace communication (written and oral), needs and practices.

Credit
12 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop and apply research skills learned within the Advanced Diploma in Indigenous Legal Studies; (2) identify, research and analyse a sociolegal issue connected to their workplace; (3) effectively communicate orally and in writing to peers and employers; (4) identify relevant generic skills acquired through their study in the advanced diploma for application in the workplace context; (5) evaluate the application of the relevant generic skills to, and reflect on their further development in, the practicum; (6) demonstrate initiative and the ability to work independently, as required by the organisational supervisor in their practicum; and (7) record, organise and manage information.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) one workshop at the start of the semester; (2) a mid-stage reflection journal (1000 words); (3) a negotiated Work Placement Project and Practicum Report (1500 words); (4) a work portfolio with an updated CV and one-page summary of skills developed in the workplace; and (5) a final student presentation at the end of the semester on the negotiated Work Placement Project. Students are required to work 15 days over the semester with the host organisation and other professional legal institutions. Further information is available in the unit outline.



This unit is assessed on an ungraded pass/ungraded failed basis. All assessment items must be successfully completed.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Mel Thomas
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Advanced Diploma in Indigenous Legal Studies (DA002)
Co-requisites
(LAWS1110 Crime and Society
or LAWS1120 Australian Legal Principles and Institutions
or LAWS1104 Introduction to Law) and (INDG1150 Aboriginal Encounters: Strangers in our Backyard
or INDG1160 Boodjar Moort Katitjin: Introduction to Indigenous Heritage and Knowledge)
Text

Williams, G. Learning the Law, 13th edn: Sweet & Maxwell 2006

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.