Constitutional Law in Context (Erasmus)

Overview

Introduces students to the basic institutions and principles of the constitution of the United Kingdom. Examines these institutions and principles in context to enable the distinctive features of the constitution to be better understood. Covers the different levels of governance including central government and devolved administrations and explores the basic principles of constitutional law including the rule of law and human rights. Links to the Rights and Accountability module and to the European Constitutional Law module.

Learning Objectives

Students will acquire systematic knowledge, understanding and critical awareness of:
1. The institutions of the Constitution (including Parliament, Executive, Courts, devolved administrations).
2. Major constitutional doctrines (including the rule of law, parliamentary sovereignty).
3. The influence of European and international factors on the Constitution.
4. The constitutional arrangements for Northern Ireland.
5. The contexts (historical and political) in which constitutional law operates.

Skills

Students who have completed this module will demonstrate
1. A systematic understanding of and a critical awareness of contemporary problems and/or new insights into UK constitutional law and the legal system, informed by current research and advanced scholarship.
2. A comprehensive understanding of doctrinal approaches applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship.
3. A practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the study of constitutional law in its wider contexts.
4. A conceptual understanding that enables them:
a. to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship regarding (UK) constitutional law.
b. to evaluate critically the development of legal doctrines in the field.
c. to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them.
5. The ability to synthesise key legal principles and policy issues in the field and communicate critically in a form and manner appropriate to the study of law.

In developing these skills, the module will draw upon current research and advanced scholarship in the field

Assessment

Assessment which reflects the learning outcomes and required skills.