Courses / Module

This module seeks to develop and consolidate skills that law students will need for a productive university experience and generally for their careers and life. It comprises a series of workshops addressing skillsets that students may too readily be assumed to possess already, but which may require some fine-tuning. Topics to be covered on this module include

- Refresher on writing skills: Reminder of the main rules of punctuation, grammar, syntax, and of common spelling mistakes in English. Tips on effective writing. Avoiding plagiarism – developing your capacity to write independently.
- Basic computer literacy: using Word and similar applications; formatting documents for assignments; presentation, footnoting; using Endnote, Zotero and similar applications; making charts.
- Information literacy: where to find reliable information for assignments and research; developing informed critique of statistics; practical advice on navigating legal academic databases; distinguishing reliable from unreliable sources; finding case law; finding (up-to-date) legislation; identifying useful secondary sources.
- Critical Thinking and Reflection: how to develop a reasoned argument; reason and logic; challenging received wisdom and developing independent and informed viewpoints.
- Organisation and time management. The art of prioritisation. Tackling procrastination.
- Diversity in society and the workplace. Bridging the divides. Accommodating differences. Tackling stereotypes and unconscious bias.
- Approaches to problem-solving, resolving conflict, and working in groups.
- Personal goals and aspirations: reflecting on what students want to get out of university and developing life goals.
- Career Development and CV-writing: developing your CV; drafting and layout; effective communication of skills. Building experience. Preparing for FE1s and King’ Inns. Options for careers in and outside of law. Opportunities at home and abroad. The importance of adaptability and flexibility. Best practice in completing application forms. Effective interview skills.
- Self-care and supports for students: an introduction to Student Services at MU. Stress management. Prioritising.
Any aspect of this module may be changed in any given academic year, subject to the discretion of the module lecturer.