A Bottom-Up Approach to Developing LLB Course Outcomes and an Integrated Curriculum

Abstract:     
In 2006, the Law School at the University of Western Australia embarked on a Curriculum Review of its LLB degree. Central elements of the Review were the identification of graduate outcomes and the mapping and integration of those outcomes appropriately and progressively across the degree. This paper considers the process of undertaking this aspect of the Curriculum Review and describes the results achieved. A bottom-up approach was adopted starting with the development, refinement and statement of student learning outcomes at the level of individual units and progressing to the identification of student learning outcomes at the various year levels. From this data, the school endeavoured to identify those outcomes that required more and/or less focus through the degree and in so doing ensure that the integration of outcomes in the degree is progressive and comprehensive. The results of this exercise informed the formulation of the Course Student Learning Outcomes Statement and Graduate Attributes Statement and will further assist in other aspects of the Curriculum Review, for example, the introduction of new core units and the alignment of assessments with outcomes at unit and year level.

Keywords: LLB, JD, Curriculum review, learning outcomes, graduate attributes

JEL Classification: K00, A00, A29

Accepted Paper Series