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 explores the intersections between law, policy and governance from both theoretical and practical perspectives. First, it examines the meaning of governance, with a focus on the concept of ‘good governance'; key issues and debates associated with the law and governance; and distinctions between governance and government. Second, it explores the development of policy and its translation into law, the differences and relationships between policy and law, how they are formed and who forms them, and the often contested interests and stakeholders involved. Third, the unit considers the processes and pragmatic intricacies of statutory law formation and reform, including through the work of government policy officers, Parliamentary committees and law reform agencies. Fourth, the practical application of law, policy and governance is analysed, providing an opportunity to assess effectiveness in contemporary case study areas.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Non-standard teaching periodUWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of law, policy, and governance, as well as the role of government; (2) display an understanding of the relationships between law, policy, government and governance; (3) critique contemporary issues and debates associated with law, policy and governance; (4) assess the effectiveness of law, policy and governance challenges explored in this unit; (5) analyse the processes of statutory law formation and reform; and (6) create persuasive arguments through written and oral work.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research essay; (2) workshop participation and presentation; and (3) assignment. Further information is available in the unit outline.



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

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Erika Techera
Contact hours
This unit will run as an intensive on 21-22 and 24-25 October as well as an introductory session on 9 September. Attendance at all sessions is compulsory.
Note
This unit is taught in a blended mode, and students will need to complete some online learning tasks prior to attending the face-to-face workshop sessions.
  • 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.