Law Guided Research Essay

Wedi cwblhau'r modiwl dylai'r myfyrwyr fedru:

1. To acquire the skills necessary in order to carry out research in a chosen field of law and write up the results of this research in a clearly organised and comprehensible way so as to maximise the dissemination of knowledge and ideas contained in the research.
2. To apply the skills acquired in the relevant skills modules to their chosen area of law
3. Carry out independent research with minimal supervision or direction.
4. Provide a logical and clear presentation and writing up of their findings.
5. Critically review and present a coherent body of knowledge in discussion and writing.
6. The outcomes of the training involved in the module may be summarised as follows: (a) to develop an appreciation of the research potential of subjects through the choice of a viable topic for research; (b) Review, evaluate and prioritise the significance of the materials obtained and issues identified (c) to develop the skills associated with the planning, organising and timetabling of a sustained piece of research over a period of some months; (d) to develop the ability to organise ideas and order material for the effective presentation of argument and data; (e) to develop academic writing skills for purposes of presenting a clear, articulate and readable account of the subject in question in a substantial written format of 4,000 words.

This module comprises an exercise in sustained legal research and writing in relation to a special topic rather than being based on a prescribed course of study. It is for the student to select a subject for detailed research with the approval of the Department and then to proceed to the research and writing stages of the exercise under the supervision of a member of staff with knowledge of the field in which the subject of the essay is located. Students registered on themed degrees must research a topic that is relevant to their degree and they will be supported with the development of this through the help of their assigned supervisor.

The overall exercise involved in researching and writing the essay builds upon a knowledge, and training in the use, of library resources provided in Years 1 and 2 of the degree scheme. Law students will draw on the knowledge, and training in the use, of library resources provided in the Legal Skills and Research module.

Successful research presupposes the ability to use a range of library materials and to trace sources through databases and bibliographical aids. Guidance is provided by the designated supervisor through a series of meetings at which the student reports on progress and submits a written draft or drafts for comment. The supervisor's role is to advise about both research methodology and the presentation of the research in the dissertation itself.



The module is assessed by a reading of the essay by the supervisor as a first marker, by another member of staff as second marker, and by an external examiner where appropriate. The essay is assessed applying criteria relating to the effectiveness and adequacy of the research and the written presentation of material and argument. The assessment is therefore especially concerned with the ability to work relatively independently, to locate and organise relevant research material, and to communicate effectively via written media.

This is set by the student on advice and approval from staff.

Mae'r modiwl hwn yn cydymffurfio a FfCChC Lefel 6