UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Confirmation that this version of the module specification has been approved by the School Learning and Teaching Committee: 22
April 2015
MODULE SPECIFICATION
1.
Title of the module
Introduction to Italian Civil Law (LW331)
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
Kent Law School
3.
Start date of the module
September 2009, revised start date 2015-16
4.
The number of students expected to take the module
10
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with
other relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
None
6.
The level of the module (e.g. Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or Postgraduate
[M])
Certificate [C]
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents
5 credits (2.5 ECTS) these are non-contributory
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)
Autumn and Spring terms
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules
None
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
LLB English and Italian Law
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will have:
1
Module Specification Template (v.October 2014)
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
11.1 knowledge and understanding of the Italian legal system;
11.2 a sound grounding in aspects of Italian civil law;
11.3 knowledge and understanding of methods of assessment used in Italian universities, in
preparation for the year of study abroad;
11.4 knowledge and understanding of the relevant legal terminology in the Italian language;
11.5 increased their oral and written fluency in the Italian language.
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
12.1 apply knowledge to complex situations;
12.2 recognise potential alternative conclusions for particular situations, and provide supporting
reasons for them;
12.3 identify accurately the issue(s) which require research;
12.4 identify and retrieve up to date information, using paper and electronic sources;
12.5 act independently in planning and undertaking tasks;
12.6 use the Italian language and legal terminology with care and accuracy;
12.7 confidently participate in group oral discussions.
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
The module introduces students to some basic aspects of Italian Civil Law. After a short historical
introduction, the fundamental distinction between real rights and obligations (Jura in re / Jura in
persona) is emphasised. Within the notion of obligations and their sources, the distinction between
contractual and extra-contractual liability (damnum aquilianum aut damnum injuria datum aut
damnum ex maleficio) is then dealt with. A short reference is finally made to a peculiarity of the
Italian Civil Law system, that is to say the lack of a Commercial Code and the fact that most of the
commercial matters are regulated by the V book of the Civil code.
14. Indicative Reading List
A study pack will normally be produced at the beginning of the year, providing an outline of the
module structure, analysis of legal issues, questions for discussions, further reading.
Core text (use latest edition where available)
Manuale di Istituzioni di Diritto Privato (Diritto Civile), Massimiliano Di Pirro, Edizione Simone, Napoli
2014, Edizione: XX
Diritto privato (Edizione XVI), Francesco Galgano, CEDAM, 2013
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the
total study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of
the intended module learning outcomes
The total number of contact hours is 10 over the course of the year and will take the form of
seminars.
The function of the seminar is to:



Enable the seminar leader to provide an expository framework of the areas of law to be
considered, upon which students may build more detailed knowledge through private study.
Provide a fuller discussion of the more difficult legal concepts.
Indicate points of difference and similarity between UK and Italian law.
2
Module Specification Template (v.October 2014)
UNIVERSITY OF KENT






Enable students to learn through engaging in legal argument based on their prior reading,
and generally in relation to hypothetical concrete situations.
Provide the opportunity for students to raise points or clarify issues arising from reading.
Identify learning difficulties in relation to particular topics, or of particular students, so that
appropriate remedial steps may be taken.
Enable students to practise language skills relevant to the subject
Introduce students to the style of assessment methods they will encounter during their year
abroad.
Have increased confidence in their oral participation in group discussion
The 10 hours of seminars address the subject specific learning outcomes (11.1 to 11.5) and generic
learning outcomes (12.1, 12.2, 12.6 and 12.7)
In addition to the contact hours students are expected to undertake approximately 40 hours of
private study. Private study will be primarily addressed to preparing for seminars and to researching
seminar topics and will thus achieve learning outcomes 11.1-5 and 12.1-7.
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended module
learning outcomes
This module is not part of the formal 120 credit diet for Stage 1, therefore assessments do not
formally ‘count’ for the degree. This module represents extra learning for students on the degree
programme.
The module convenor will assess students’ level of performance as demonstrated by their
attendance, level of preparation for, and participation in seminars and at least one piece of written
work of 1500 – 2000 words. This will address learning outcomes 11.1 to 11.4 and 12.1 to 12.6.
Learning outcomes 11.5 and 12.7 are tested by participation in seminars held entirely in Italian.
Formal testing of language skills is undertaken in compulsory language modules.
Students who do not demonstrate the appropriate level of performance will not be deemed to have
passed the module and will therefore not be permitted to proceed to a year abroad. Appropriate
level of performance in this context means the ability to apply the case method competently (i.e. at a
level sufficient to attain a pass mark).
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
There are no additional resource implications; the module will make use of existing resources.
18. The School recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability equality legislation,
and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need in its teaching. Within
this module we will make reasonable adjustments wherever necessary, including additional or
substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have declared and
discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements for students with declared disabilities will be
made on an individual basis, in consultation with the University’s disability/dyslexia support service,
and specialist support will be provided where needed.
19. Campus where module will be delivered: Canterbury
3
Module Specification Template (v.October 2014)
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
4
Module Specification Template (v.October 2014)