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 represents the core of the capstone experience for Law and Society students. It allows students to develop independent research skills and the foundations to construct and develop an original research project. Students are able to develop the ability to identify viable research questions in socio-legal studies, understand research ethics frameworks, construct an original research project in an area of their choice and conduct and write a literature review. Students are able to gain experience in interdisciplinary research and analysis and an introduction to the interrelationship between theory, practice and research. The unit gives students the opportunity to consider how research methodologies of diverse academic disciplines engage with and contribute to socio-legal studies. Students apply a research methodology, or methodologies, to the critical analysis of legal material, secondary sources: cases (judicial decisions), legislation, government documents and international instruments. The unit extends the written and oral communication and collaborative skills developed at Levels 1 and 2.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) add to their knowledge of law and society in an area of their choice; (2) synthesise their knowledge and understanding of the evolution of socio-legal studies (including its history, philosophy and theorising) and its methods of inquiry; (3) practise independent research skills by providing a framework in which understanding research ethics and ability to use a particular methodology can be developed; and (4) extend their written and oral communication and collaborative skills by working in special interest groups, giving a presentation, writing a report and planning and organising a convention open to Law and Society students enrolled in other parts of the major.

Assessment

Students demonstrate achievement of the outcomes in a variety of assessment methods which may include numerous presentations and an interview paper. Further assessment information is provided in the unit outline.



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

Unit rules
Prerequisites
LAWS2227 Law in Action
Contact hours
lecture: 1 hour per week
workshop: 2 hours per week
Note
Students may also take this unit if they have acquired the equivalent skills in other Level 1 units.
  • 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.