FN0141 The Legal Environment

Synopsis of module

The module aims to provide a consideration of the impact of the legal environment on the nature, function and operations of companies. In particular, the module will examine the major principles of contract and company law. Further, the module will consider the relationship between the company and specific stakeholders through an investigation of corporate liabilities in the area of negligence.
The module will be delivered through a mixture of seminars and directed learning activities. Learning will also be developed through the extensive use of directed leaning. Extensive guidance will be given on the nature of the work to be undertaken through the Learning and Teaching Plan.
Formative assessment will take place within the contact sessions and through directed learning. The Learning and Teaching Plan will include guidance on the objectives to be achieved within each block of study so that students are able to monitor their own progress.

Summative assessment will take the form of an examination.

Outline syllabus

The module will cover the following areas
Legal structure and sources of law
Contract law : Formation, contents and discharge
Legal provisions relating to the supply of goods and services
Company Law
Negligence
Employers' Liability

Aims of the module

The module aims to enable students to:

1.	understand legal systems and the sources of law

2.	examine the major areas of law impacting upon the business world

3.	explore the legal context in which companies are created and operate

4.	examine the impact of the legal 'personality' of the company in respect of a company's relationship with the external world.

Learning outcomes

After completing the module, students should be able to:

1.	describe the legal system and sources of law

2.	demonstrate an understanding of the main principles of contract law

3.	demonstrate an understanding of the main principles of company law

4.	describe the liability of the company in respect of negligence and employers' liability

Learning, teaching and assessment strategy

The module will be delivered through a mixture of formal lectures and seminars. In both the full time and part time modes seminars will provide an opportunity to examine theoretical concepts and the impact of these theoretical principles on corporate practice and behaviour.

The module will involve both directed and independent learning. Directed learning may include a range of activities including pre-reading, preparation for seminar activity, preparing for presentations etc. Guidance will be given on the nature of work to be undertaken either through the Learning and Teaching Plan or through specific instruction related to a particular task.

In all modes of delivery the module will involve independent learning. This is learning which the student identifies by pursuing areas of interest or by providing deeper or broader knowledge of a subject area, through a range of learning activities that might include reading, reflection and independent research.

Formative assessment will take place within the contact sessions and through directed learning. This may take place in the context of seminar work, directed activities and theory/practice related discussions. The Learning and Teaching Plan will include guidance on the objectives to be achieved within each block of study so that students are able to monitor and reflect on their own progress.

Summative assessment

Assessment is 100% by 2 hour closed book examination.