Keep it Real: The Case for Introducing Authentic Tasks in the Undergraduate Law Degree

Abstract

Authentic learning and assessment, which refers to tasks and assessment practices that reflect complex, real-world situations, are a radical departure from the traditional methods of learning and assessment in Higher Education. This article considers feedback from a primary, small-scale empirical study of students taking an optional Civil Litigation and Dispute Resolution module which uses authentic learning and assessment practices. Evaluating student feedback from the module, and drawing on the existing literature, the paper concludes that introducing authentic learning and assessment opportunities in the undergraduate law degree has the potential to increase student employability, engagement, and skills development. Finally, the paper examines some of the barriers to incorporating authentic tasks in the law degree, and some “light touch” ways to introduce authentic “moments” in existing modules are explored.