The Development of Law School Learning Outcomes That Parallel Legal Profession Hiring Expectations

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: Division I. Education in the Professions: Poster Session

Abstract

The purpose of this participatory action research project was to develop law school learning outcomes that parallel the characteristic, competency, and skill expectations of the legal profession. Using 77 previously identified Foundations necessary for lawyers in the sort-term, by the time they leave law school, learning outcomes were developed and vetted by law school professionals and legal employers. Conversations between law school professionals and legal employers were then facilitated to refine the learning outcomes. Future research and work will encompass the implementation of the model learning outcomes within law schools and the hiring practices based on those learning outcomes in the legal profession, in addition to developing applicable measures of the learning outcomes and assessment tools for hiring criteria.

Authors

• Logan Cornett, Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System

• Elizabeth Anderson, University of Denver

• Zack DeMeola, Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System (IAALS)