LAW8265 : Comparative Contract Law (Inactive)

Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Semester 2 Credit Value: 20
ECTS Credits: 10.0
European Credit Transfer System

Aims

This module examines some of the key features of English, French, Dutch and German contract law and its theoretical doctrines and practical applications, drawing, where relevant, on European instruments. It will draw on other jurisdictions where possible. Particular attention will be paid to pre-contractual relations, the law of mistake, the law of frustration and remedies. The module will identify diverging theoretical and practical approaches and will explore possible explanations for such divergence. The module aims:(a) to give you an understanding of differences and similarities in English, French, Dutch andGerman contract law;(b) to question the theoretical foundations of the key features of each jurisdiction, and;(c) to enable you to identify and evaluate possible solutions to harmonising European contract law.

Outline Of Syllabus

• Introduction to the methodology of the comparative study of law and legal institutions• Differing notions of contractual liability and its differentiation from tort (delict) and restitution andthen a selection from the following topics: Formation, interpretation and unexpressed obligations, incorrect information (e.g. mistake/misrep), problems of unfair terms, impossibility and remedies for non performance.

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture71:007:00A mix of in-person and online lectures delivering the main topics
Structured Guided LearningLecture materials13:003:00Introduction to the Module based on the Module Handbook
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion601:0060:00Individual research and skills development
Structured Guided LearningLecture materials71:007:00Materials introducing and structuring the main topics preparing for the lecture content.
Guided Independent StudyDirected research and reading170:0070:00Own reading and study based on Module Handbook, textbooks, lecture materials & recommended reading.
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesSmall group teaching21:002:00Individualised feedback session based on formative submission
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesSmall group teaching32:006:00Classes covering the syllabus and designed to assists students in consolidating learning
Structured Guided LearningStructured research and reading activities76:0042:00Preparing for the classes
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesDrop-in/surgery31:003:00To assist students with consolidation of the topics, preparation for the seminars and assessments
Total200:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The Teaching Methods are based on those that have worked successfully as adapted for delivery post Covid 19 and on the assumption that at least some PIP delivery will be possible, though there is flexibility if that proves not to be the case. The lecture materials will introduce students to the general subject-matter of the module and the specific topics, with guidance on the key concepts and relevant law. The classes will provide an opportunity for deeper study of and reflection on the specific topics and on preparation for the assessment essay. These classes will be supported by self-directed study, guided by the module materials. The combination of these teaching methods has been designed to develop the students’ research, analytical, and critical skills with the aim of stimulating their interest and enthusiasm for the subject, their engagement with it, and helping them to become active, independent, and reflective learners.

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Essay2M1003000 words
Formative Assessments

Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.

Description Semester When Set Comment
Essay2M500 word essay outline
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assessed coursework will give students the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their research skills, and their ability to demonstrate understanding of the operation of comparative and contract law theory, whilst also presenting coherent arguments supported by appropriate legal basis and precedent. The formative exercise will enable students to begin planning their coursework essay and develop some initial ideas.

Reading Lists

Timetable