Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
On completion of this diploma, you will have knowledge and understanding of:
- in-depth knowledge of a substantial range of the concepts, values, rules and principles of the foundation subjects of law, and of the legal system of England and Wales
- an understanding of legal methodology
- an understanding of the social, political, economic, historical and ethical dimensions of law
Cognitive skills
On completion of this diploma, you will be able to:
- apply legal principles and authority in a logical and coherent way
- organise and assimilate legal and factual material and express a reasoned personal view about that material
- identify the relative merits of different legal and policy arguments as articulated in case law and legal scholarship
- present and make a reasoned choice between alternative opinions and solutions
- explore and apply exceptions to legal rules and principles
Practical and/or professional skills
On completion of this diploma, you will be able to:
- identify legal issues in relation to material facts (both real and hypothetical)
- apply legal principles to resolve identified issues
- present arguable and reasoned conclusions
- access, comprehend, interrogate and use legal materials (both primary and secondary sources) using electronic and hard copy methods.
Key skills
On completion of this diploma, you will be able to demonstrate the following skills:
Communication and literacy
- communicate effectively and accurately (using appropriate legal terminology)
- organise information and illustrate its relevance to the intended audience
- appreciate the requirements of intended audiences and select and appropriate mode of presentation and style
- appreciate and demonstrate the techniques of legal argument
- read and discuss legal materials (whether statutes, cases or academic commentary) which are written in technical and complex language.
Numeracy and IT
- comprehend and use basic numerical information
- use basic keyboard skills and perform basic computer tasks
- use the internet, WWW and some dedicated electronic information retrieval systems to access legal information
Improving own learning and performance
- reflect critically on your own performance with the assistance of feedback
- take steps to improve your learning and performance with the assistance of feedback
- assess your own progress, identify issues on which assistance is needed and obtain such assistance.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods
You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.