LS4553: LAW AND MEDICAL ETHICS (2014-2015)

Course Aims: 1. To explore and critically evaluate the key principles of the law and medical ethics. 2. Through the seminar, to develop legal research, reasoning, analysis and legal argument skills, and also oral, written and team working skill, and the opportunity to respond constructively to feedback. 3. To provide students with the above knowledge and skills, to enable them to progress in their studies with greater understanding and confidence. Main Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding By the end of the course students will understand and have critically evaluated the concepts and principles from their study of Contract Law. Subject-Specific Skills and Concepts This course considers, at an advanced level, a number of themes concerning law and medical ethics. The course approaches a selection of current problems in contemporary medicine rom the legal and sometimes philosophical perspectives. Topics addressed in this course are likely to include: key issues in medical ethics, Euthanasia, Abortion, Infertility and assisted reproduction, the body as property, Consent to Medical Treatment and the genetic revolution: genetic screening and wrongful life. Key Skills (Transferable) 1. Communicate orally and in writing; 2. Ability to work effectively in small groups to contribute to the group’s task; 3. Ability to work independently, to organise and manage time, stress and effort in performance of tasks; 4. Problem solving skills; 5. Critical analysis; 6. Logical argument; 7. An ability to synthesise and organise complex materials and arguments; 8. With limited guidance act independently, and where appropriate as part of a team, in planning and undertaking tasks; 9. Conduct formal and informal oral presentations; 10. Make appropriate use of technology in research, writing and oral presentations; and 11. Reflect on own learning and to seek and make use of feedback. Content: This course will explore critically evaluate key issues in medical ethics, Euthanasia, Abortion, Infertility and assisted reproduction, the body as property, Consent to Medical Treatment and the genetic revolution: genetic screening and wrongful life.

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

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1st Attempt: One closed book examination of 3 hours duration (75%) and an assessed essay of 3,000 words (25%), based on a set title on a topical issue of medical ethics not covered by seminars and an additional 1,000 word essay for MA Legal Studies students. Resit: Normally, no resit is available.

Class essay of around 1,500 words.

Feedback will be provided on the feedback form within three weeks from the date of submission.

None.