LAW-20034: Introduction to Public International Law

This module aims to introduce students to how the law works in the international community and to encourage them to look beyond the domestic confines of English law. It will encourage students to take an active and reflective role in their learning and to develop a greater understanding of the $ùuniversal&© nature of law making. It will also prepare them for advanced, critical study at Level 3 (and ultimately for employment) by enhancing their capacity to engage in project work, both independently and in collaboration with their peers. The module helps to fulfill the aims of the new (April 2007) Law programme specification and in particular the aspiration $ùto offer a distinctive opportunity for student learning in Law&© and to build on Level 1 skills modules.

Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate a secure understanding of the nature of public international law and its foundation in international instruments, custom and legal principles; in the UK jurisdiction.

will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2 and 3
identify and qualitatively appraise the sources, structures and procedures of international law and the institutions and individuals who practice international law will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2 and 3
plan and conduct a small research project, make an oral presentation, negotiate group dynamics and use simple IT software. will be achieved by assessments: 2
critically evaluate how international law is applied in the UK jurisdiction will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2 and 3
offer a critical judgment of the role of law (and its limits) in ordering international relations. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2 and 3

Study hours

9 x 2hr lectures (weeks 1-9)
4 x 1hr tutorials (weeks 6-9) (½ hour group presentation, ½ hour discussion)

Plus:

36 hours lecture preparation
8 hours tutorial preparation
18 hours group tutorial presentation/wiki preparation
66 hours individual reading and exam preparation

TOTAL: 150 hours

Description of Module Assessment

01: Class Test weighted 10%

Four questionnaires to be completed by students
Four questionnaires will be submitted to the tutorial group in alternate weeks. The questionnaires will test the students' knowledge of material set for consideration in advance of the class..

02: Computer Task weighted 20%

'Wiki' preparation
Students will produce a simple $ùWiki&© (a collaboratively authored webpage) presenting information, research findings and discussion on the same topic discussed in Assessment sequence 1. Both the product and the process of the group work will be assessed. There will be a group mark for the product and individual mark for contribution, the latter to be assessed by tutor observation and a brief individual critical reflection from the student with short viva in discussion

03: 2 Hour Exam weighted 70%

Two hour exam with one seen and one unseen (essay type) question, both compulsory

Version: (1.05A) Created: 01/Oct/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.