Alternative Dispute Resolution (M3122)

15 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

The module provides you with an integrated understanding of the theory and practice of dispute resolution from an academic, crosscultural and interdisciplinary perspective.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is now a fundamental subject for legal professions and academic research. The first part of the module examines theoretical perspectives with a focus on the emergence of the ADR movement, with specific emphasis given to the influence and principles of the Access to Justice Movement.

The second part of the module offers an analysis of negotiation, mediation and arbitration, complemented by formative practical negotiation and mediation exercises. The module enables you to develop your critical understanding of the nature of dispute resolution, and to become more creative and effective in your legal problem-solving.

Teaching

50%: Lecture
50%: Seminar

Assessment

30%: Coursework (Test)
70%: Written assessment (Essay)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.