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Legal Research (LAWS50039)
Graduate coursework level 5Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
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Overview
| Availability(Quotas apply) | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject is a core element of the JD degree. It provides students in their final year with a capstone supervised research experience. It does so through supervised research seminars or structured projects, generally offered in a small group setting. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with a member of the academic staff in pursuing a particular research interest. In each semester, a range of seminars and projects will be offered. Some may have special entry requirements and enrolment limits. Each seminar or project will include a research skills component and seminar or project-based supervision on a legal issue.
Intended learning outcomes
The subject involves study of a selected area of law at an advanced level; the subject requires the student to engage in self-directed research, under the supervision of a member of staff with expertise in the student's field of inquiry, and/or the methodology they have chosen to use. Students who successfully complete this subject will have demonstrated:
- Creativity and originality in identifying, framing and developing their own sophisticated and relevant research question;
- A rigorous and effective methodological approach to planning, researching and executing a substantial and innovative research-based project;
- A deep and integrated knowledge and understanding of the research project area including its connection with its broader contexts;
- Sophisticated interpretation and integration of relevant material from a full range of primary and secondary sources;
- Critical analysis and argument that demonstrates substantial originality, creativity and insight into the research subject area;
- A capacity to communicate the research thesis clearly, persuasively and succinctly in an oral presentation;
- A capacity to reflect upon and engage with feedback from an oral presentation of their research thesis and other feedback from the supervisor;
- Sophisticated, appropriate, effective and persuasive written communication skills, demonstrated in developing, structuring, editing, presenting and referencing relevant analysis, argument and conclusions on the research project, in a format appropriate for publication; and
- A high level of personal autonomy and accountability in developing and executing the substantial research project.
Generic skills
On completion of the subject, students should have demonstrated the following skills:
- Ability to develop and frame a sophisticated legal research question;
- Employing complex research methodologies well-suited to answering the research question;
- Ability to identify and critically analyse a diverse range of pertinent and complex materials;
- Capacity for advanced critical and independent thought and reflection; and
- Capacity to communicate the research results, clearly, comprehensively and persuasively.
Last updated: 3 November 2022