Scholars International Journal of Law, Crime and Justice (SIJLCJ)
Volume-5 | Issue-01 | 22-29
Original Research Article
Beyond the Socratic Method: Exploring Alternative Theories in Legal Education
Kenneth I. Granle Jr.
Published : Jan. 24, 2022
Abstract
Legal education has changed very little over the last century. At the same time, there have been significant advances in the field of education leading to several theories. The following will examine the five leading theories of education: connectivism, humanism, constructivism, cognitivism, and behaviorism. Each of these will be evaluated next to the Socratic Method, which is the primary method employed by law school instructors. Specific examples of how some of these theories have surfaced in law school and how the Socratic Method embodies other theories will be noted. The effect of technology on law school instruction will also be addressed. The overall goal of this article is to reveal how these theories can be utilized in the law school setting to produce highly competent graduates who will improve the efficacy of the field as a whole. Anecdotal example from North American and African law schools will underscore the notions put forth in this article.