1. Demonstrate an understanding of key theoretical concepts underpinning interview skills and legal negotiation (sg 1, 2, 4 & 9) (Knowledge and Understanding, Learning)

2. Evaluate and interpret the effectiveness of interview skills (sg 1, 9 & 12) (Reflection)

3. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences (sg4) (Communication)

Blackboard
PC
Internet Access

Fisher, R. and Williams (1997 2012) Getting to Yes 3rd Edition, London : Arrow Books Limited.
Trevithick, P. (2012) Social Work Skills and Knowledge a Practice Handbook 3rd Edition. Maidenhead: Open University Press. (e-book)
Finch, E. and Fafinski, S (2013) Legal Skills 4th Edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Heslop, E. (2014) Giving Legal Advice An Advisers Handbook. London Legal Action Group

This is a distance learning award, and the Blackboard VLE will provide a structured framework for the delivery of this module.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (5 hours)
2 hours Telephone tutorials with the tutor
3 hours Scheduled discussion boards

Guided Independent Study: (295 hours) This will be made up of:
Preparation for tasks and online discussions and seminars; Wider reading including exploring additional sources of information, (particularly web based), updating their knowledge in line with developments and changes
Reading study materials, asynchronous online seminars, interactive tasks
Preparation for and completing the assignment

The content of the module conforms to the generic National Occupational Standards for Legal Advice (SFJCSAB1, LSIAG11, LSIAG8, SFJGA5, SFJGA6, SFJBF1, SFJBF3 )
Topics include:

Aims, purpose and structure of an interview
Non-verbal communication skills, active listening,
Verbal Communication skills (questioning, paraphrasing, reflecting, summarising, language, paralanguage and challenging)
Finding and providing information
Telephone advice
Difficult client groups
Values and attitudes
Environmental, personal and social barriers to effective communication
Written and electronic communication and recording
Confidentiality, data protection and consent
The aims purpose and stages of negotiation
Negotiation types, styles, strategies and tactics
The context of advocacy
Preparation for advocacy
Presenting client's interests

1. An assessed simulated advice interview (telephone and recorded) of up to 15 minutes and an oral reflection (5 minutes) which will assess learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3 weighted at 60%.

2. Coursework comprising of a written negotiation task of 750 words will assess LO’s 1 and 3, weighted at 40%.

Formative feedback will be provided through
- the completion of a learning journal based on reflections on own or observed practice on which students will receive individual feedback
- there will be on line discussions and case study exercises, the tutor will give both group and individual feedback on these
- The students will receive detailed feedback on their assignment plan