This module prepares students for their final Dissertation on the LLM International Aviation Law course. It introduces students to the skills required to carry out research for a substantial piece of independent research within the area of International Aviation Law and Regulation, including:

research design

methodologies for legal research

reviewing existing literature relevant to their individual project

developing research questions for advanced research in international aviation law

identifying relevant and appropriate sources

Research title must be approved by the Module Tutor in consultation with the student, subject supervisor and Armed Forces Tutor.

The assessment requires students to research, prepare and present in writing a proposal in preparation for their LLM International Aviation Law Dissertation. (Assesses all Learning Outcomes 1 – 4.)

The LLM in International Aviation Law and Regulation is delivered flexibly and can be studied part-time across one year. The course uses a blended learning approach to delivery and independent study. Content will be delivered using technology enhanced learning which will involve the use of the Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE). There will be a selection of learning activities which may include use of online materials and guided reading, podcasts, use of video and recording clips, online discussion boards and blogs. Students will also have the opportunity to interact using social media.

1. Identify a legal issue, within International Aviation Law, and clearly articulate a rationale for a research study which aims to advance knowledge and understanding of that issue.

2. Propose and evaluate an appropriate methodology for carrying out the research project, demonstrating an understanding of the importance of ethical codes in designing research.

3. Deploy legal research skills effectively to identify a range of relevant primary and secondary sources of law, which are appropriate to the level of study.

4. Cite sources accurately according to the conventions of the OSCOLA system of referencing.

WestLaw
LexisLibrary
Practical Law
Law Trove (OUP collection of digital academic textbooks in substantive areas of Law)
General academic journal databases accessed via library account.

Lammasniemi, Laura. Law Dissertations A Step-by-Step Guide (Routledge 2018)¿¿ Available as an e-book in the University Library (online)

There are no subject texts for this module as students are working in areas of substantive and procedural law relevant to their dissertation topic.

Students will require access to relevant texts, online journal articles and reports as well as case law and statutes.

MOD personnel only

You will gain the skills you need to carry out research on your LLM International Aviation Law and will be supported in preparing a proposal for your own research on the Dissertation module. This is a programme that is unique to members of the Royal Air Force. Students will be able to apply to this programme after completing the relevant RAF training on International Aviation Law and Regulation which is awarded Advanced Standing in this course. To successfully obtain an LLM in International Aviation Law and Regulation, students will need to complete two academic core modules . These two modules are a 20 credit Research Methods module which is designed to enable students develop effective research skills and knowledge of various research methods in Law, and a 40 credits Dissertation module which is contextualised to a relevant area of International Aviation Law and Regulation. Thus, the programme is a close partnership between the University and the RAF where both entities work closely to deliver the best possible outcome for the student.