Program Overview

Alternative Dispute Resolution (LAWS0033)

Key Information

• Faculty: Faculty of Laws
• Teaching department: Laws
• Credit value: 30
• Restrictions:
  • Students from UoL institutions must be in their final year of study, and must have a background in law.
  • Students from other UCL departments must have a 2:1 performance in the 'Foundations of the English Legal System' pathway (LAWS0379 & LAWS0380).

Alternative Credit Options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

MODULE SUMMARY:
This module introduces students to the theory and practice of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) within the broader context of traditional court-based systems. It covers litigation, the history and development of ADR, negotiation, mediation, and the role of the legal profession, offering a cross-cultural perspective on dispute processes. Innovations in ADR within the common law world over the past four decades are examined through a general understanding of dispute dynamics, equipping students with knowledge that enhances both academic analysis and practical problem-solving.

The course delves into the nature and significance of disputes, exploring traditional approaches revitalised through the 'access to justice' and 'ADR' movements. It examines the causes, characterisation, and handling of disputes while introducing major theoretical frameworks. Students gain insight into diverse decision-making processes, including negotiation, mediation, adjudication, online dispute resolution, and restorative justice. By the end, students will understand the theoretical and practical dimensions of ADR, laying the foundation for further study and application of non-adversarial methods.

MODULE AIMS:
By the end of the module, you should gain:

• Knowledge and understanding of the cross-cultural issues surrounding the differing processes of dispute resolution
• Understanding of the jurisprudential and social science issues surrounding disputes and dispute resolution
• Knowledge of the core literature relating to the areas studied on the course

Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year

Intended Teaching Term: Terms 1 and 2

Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 6)

Teaching and Assessment

• Mode of study: In person
• Methods of assessment:
  • 50% Coursework
  • 50% Exam
• Mark scheme: Numeric Marks

Other Information

• Number of students on module in previous year: 28
• Module leader: Dr John Sorabji