Brief Summary
The video focuses on important guidelines for assignments and referencing in legal studies. It emphasizes the significance of understanding primary and secondary sources, proper referencing styles, and the specifics of various legal texts and statutes.
- Importance of adhering to the correct referencing style.
- Distinction between primary and secondary sources in legal writing.
Introduction to Assignment Guidelines
The session begins with an overview of the importance of assignments and their role in maintaining the integrity of assessments. It explains that exams will be conducted online, with support for students who may have difficulties using technology. Students are urged to familiarize themselves with the system's requirements.
Referencing and Assignment Structure
Discussion revolves around the necessity of referencing in assignments, stressing that failure to reference appropriately can lead to losing marks. The session provides insights into the required referencing style and informs students that they will be expected to use specific formats, such as the African Journal on Human Rights referencing style.
Primary vs. Secondary Sources
The instructor explains the difference between primary and secondary sources, asserting that primary sources include legislation and court judgments, while secondary sources consist of analyses and interpretations of primary law. Effective research methods for assigning tasks are addressed, emphasizing the need to utilize reliable resources.
Using Research Databases
Students are encouraged to utilize databases such as LexisNexis for accessing legal texts and case law. Instructions are provided on how to navigate the databases and resolve potential access issues. Emphasis is placed on using well-established databases for credible legal research.
Footnote and Bibliography Guidelines
Detailed instructions on how to format footnotes and the bibliography are given. Students are informed about the necessity of placing footnotes immediately after citations within the text and organizing the bibliography in alphabetical order by author last name.
Referencing Case Law
The webinar instructs on referencing South African case law, highlighting what to include, such as case names and judgments. Students are guided on how to execute inter-textual referencing with footnotes, ensuring they maintain accurate citations throughout their work.
Legislation Referencing
In referencing legislation, the lecturer emphasizes using the full name of the act, including its year. Guidance is provided on how to cite legislative texts appropriately within assignments to uphold academic standards.
Final Tips and Q&A Session
Towards the end of the video, the instructor curates a Q&A session, addressing students' inquiries regarding referencing and assignment formatting. Final tips are shared on practicing academic writing and ensuring all sources are cited correctly in both footnotes and the bibliography as this is crucial for achieving good marks.
