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]