Beyond the classroom: law literacy in practice
description
Transcript of Beyond the classroom: law literacy in practice
A presentation based on research by
Suzy Braye Michael Preston-Shoot
Amanda Thorpefirst presented to
JSWEC 2008 Cambridge
Consider what is meant by Law literacy Explore what happens to law knowledge at points
of transition: From classroom to practice learning contexts From learner to qualified practitioner From student to employee
Review factors that distance professional practice from legal and moral rules
Identify how enhanced ‘law literacy’ can support lawful and ethical practice
This presentation aims to:
The distillation of knowledge, understanding, skill and values that enables practitioner to connect relevant legal rules with the professional priorities and objectives of
ethical practice
(1) Problems of learning How social work students learn law How well students are prepared to manage ethical
dilemmas in practice
(2) Challenges of practice How use of law knowledge is mediated through the
agency context in which practice takes place How codes of ethics and conduct are mediated
through the same agency context
Practice Educators can promote change by: Enhancing the visibility of law and values as determinant
of ‘right’ or ‘just’ practice ‘protect the rights ... of service users and carers’ ‘meet relevant standards of practice and work in a
lawful, safe and effective way’ (GSCC Code) Moving beyond a technical ‘legal powers and duties’
approach to engage with the political impact of law and its role in promoting rights
Technical proficiency balanced with critical thinking Ongoing professional development focus Better understanding of accountability
Braye, S. & Preston-Shoot, M. (with Cull, L-A., Johns, R., Roche, J.) (2005) Learning, Teaching and Assessment of Law in Social Work Education: A Knowledge Review. London: Social Care Institute for Excellence.
Braye, S., Preston-Shoot, M. and Thorpe, A. (2006) Social Work Law in Practice. Southampton: Higher Education Academy SWAP.
Braye, S. and Preston-Shoot, M. (2006) Teaching, Learning and Assessment of Law in Social Work Education: A Resource Guide. London: Social Care Institute for Excellence.
Braye, S., Preston-Shoot, M. and Thorpe, A. (2007) ‘Beyond the classroom: law learning in practice’. Journal of Social Work,7, 3, 323-341 .
Braye, S. and Preston-Shoot, M. (2006) ‘The role of law in welfare reform: critical perspectives on the relationship between law and social work practice’, International Journal of Social Welfare, 15, 19-26.
Professor Suzy BrayeUniversity of Sussex, [email protected]
Professor Michael Preston-ShootUniversity of Bedfordshire, [email protected]
Amanda ThorpeUniversity of Bedfordshire, [email protected]