Cooperation-Competition and Constructive Controversy in Developing Professional Ethics in Law School Classes

50 Pages Posted: 1 Nov 2012 Last revised: 7 Sep 2013

See all articles by David W. Johnson

David W. Johnson

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Roger T. Johnson

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Verna Monson

University of St. Thomas; Cultural Dynamics Consulting

Date Written: September 22, 2012

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present the evidence concerning the impact of cooperative and competitive learning as well as constructive controversy on the development of professional ethics by law students. In addition, cooperative learning and constructive controversy increase student achievement, build better relationships among students, and improve student psychological health. The theory underlying these practices and the research documenting their effectiveness will be covered. Finally, the problems with using competitive learning in both prelaw and law school classes are discussed.

Keywords: cooperation, competition, constructive controversy, legal education, professional ethics, professional formation, social psychology of legal education, cooperative learning

Suggested Citation

Johnson, David W. and Johnson, Roger T. and Monson, Verna, Cooperation-Competition and Constructive Controversy in Developing Professional Ethics in Law School Classes (September 22, 2012). University of St. Thomas Law Journal, 2013, Forthcoming, U of St. Thomas Legal Studies Research Paper No. 12-43, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2169496

David W. Johnson

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities ( email )

420 Delaware St. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
United States

Roger T. Johnson

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities ( email )

420 Delaware St. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
United States

Verna Monson (Contact Author)

University of St. Thomas ( email )

Minneapolis, MN 55403
United States

Cultural Dynamics Consulting ( email )

55414
612 (Phone)

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