Alan L Tyree
Intellectual Property Course
Note: This paper describes the IP course that I taught
immediately before my retirement from the University of Sydney in
1997.
The course in Intellectual Property illustrates the most radical
departure from standard teaching models. The course consists of ten
'modules'. Each module has four components:
- A directed self-study component - students are given a detailed
'study guide' which guides them through the reading material of the
module. The study guide contains a list of behavioural objectives
and notes which assist the student in places where the textbook is
difficult;
- 'Cooperative Learning Group' meetings: students are requuired
to form CLGs of between 5 and 8 students. Each group meets to
discuss the issues raised by the module and to identify any
problems that should be discussed with the teacher; there are two
CLG meetings per module;
- Computer tutorials: these CRES
tutorials are keyed directly to the stated behavioural objectives.
Students must make a 'serious attempt' at the tutorials; there are
two computer tutorials per module.
- Small Group Meetings with the Teacher: provided the student
attends the CLG meetings and makes a 'serious attempt' at the
computer tutorials, he or she qualifies for a meeting with the
teacher. These meetings are in groups of few er than 10 students
and are held fortnightly.
Experience so far with the course has been extremely positive.
Student morale is positive and participation rates have been very
high. The Small Group Meetings have been very productive since the
students are prepared and have resolved the easier issues in the
Cooperative Learning Groups. The computer tutorials assure that no
significant issues are overlooked. We believe that it is important
that the prerequisite conditions be enforced: to allow unprepared
students to attend the Small Group Meetings rewards lazy students
and punishes those who have fulfilled the requirements.
Return to Alan's Home Page.
Please send inquiries & questions to alan@austlii.edu.au.
Copyright © 1997 Alan L Tyree
Last modified: Tue Oct 14 17:39:13 EST 2003