LW2ADR: Alternative Dispute Resolution

Module code: LW2ADR

Module provider: School of Law

Credits: 20

Level: 5

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Professor Anne Vergis , email: a.vergis@reading.edu.my

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: Yes

Talis reading list: No

Last updated: 12 May 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This course provides students with a better understanding of the various dispute resolution methods that are alternative to traditional methods on both a practical and a theoretical level and to equip students with negotiation and mediation skills which are key ingredients in becoming effective advocate. 

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to: 

1. Identify a range of methods of dispute resolution outside and within the court process;
2. Evaluate the appropriate ADR options to be adopted;
3. Plan for and conduct the appropriate ADR mode;
4. Evaluate options and strategies in ADR;
5. Draft simple ADR settlement agreement and present basic ADR advocacy skills. 

Module content

1. Evolution of dispute resolution & concepts
2. Negotiation theories & skills
3. Nature & Process of Mediation
4. Mediation: Roles & Skills
5. Legal issues in Mediation
6. Mediation training
7. Nature & sources of Arbitration
8. Arbitration Agreements
9. Arbitral Tribunal
10. Barriers to the Development of ADR

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

The module will be divided into topics. Teaching for each topic will typically involve:  

1 x 2hr lectures and 1 x 1hr lectures (3hr of lectures per week)  

1 x 2hr tutorial (alternate weeks)  

1 x 1hr blended learning  

There will, in addition, be revision lectures.  

In addition to the hours listed below, you will be required to complete an additional 40 hours of study, taking the total number of study hours to 240 for this module. This is to comply with the Malaysian Quality Agency (MQA).

Study hours

At least 60 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activities will be delivered in person, with the remaining hours for scheduled and self-scheduled teaching and learning activities delivered either in person or online. You will receive further details about how these hours will be delivered before the start of the module.