Slapper, G.J. and Kelly, D. (2006) The English Legal System, London, Routledge-Cavendish

- A computer with internet access
- key text

The focus of this module is on a mix of independent as well as directed study.

Contact Hours (30) on this module means your on-screen hours engaging with the online study materials contained within the `Course Information', `Course Documents', `Communication' and `Assignments' sections of the module virtual learning environment (VLE).

Independent Study (120) means on-line and off-line activity including working on tasks/exercises/activities and within the discussion forums, relevant background/supplementary reading, and assessment preparation and completion.

This module will be delivered by the use of a VLE

The VLE will provide a structured environment for progressing through this module. The `Course Information' section contains essential module information, the award handbook, the module descriptor and a section, which contains the aims and objectives of the module. The `Course Documents' section contains all the study material necessary to complete the module. Within the communication section there are a number of forums, which will enable interactive, asynchronous discussion, which supports student learning and allows for formative assessment of individual progress.

Participants are encouraged to communicate with the tutor and their fellow students using email, telephone and the discussion forums and to do so if there are matters needing assistance and support.

Web-based material will be utilised to support all aspects of the module, providing links to latest Government information and latest case law and legislation.

As this is a distance learning award, participants will need to adopt a disciplined approach to study and work for example by ensuring that activities, tasks and assignments are completed within specified time limits and that discussion with others takes place.

This module will examine the key legal concepts central to the work of advice workers. Particular themes to be studied will include

- Law as a social construct
- Legislative procedures
- Civil litigation
- Alternative dispute resolutions
- Civil procedures rules
- Classification of law - criminal law, civil law and remedies
- Sources of law - statute and common law
- Court structure and appeal system
- Judges and juries
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) - tribunals, arbitration and mediation

- The successful completion of a 2000 word assignment which will be 100% of the assessment and address learning outcomes 1 - 6

None