Lectures - communication of knowledge and ideas from the lecturer to the student. Problem Solving
Exercises - student will work as part of a team and will work together to resolve various legal scenarios.
Class Discussion/Debate - Students will be encouraged to actively participate in the class sessions which
will develop their analytical and communication skills. E-Learning - the module will be
supported with on-line learning materials. Self-Direct Independent Learning - the emphasis on independent
learning will develop a strong and autonomous work and learning practices.
Module Aim:
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the fundamentals of criminal liability in Ireland.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Identify the purpose of the criminal law and explain how and why criminal wrongs can be distinguished from non-criminal wrongs.
LO2
Describe the difference between the actus reus and mens rea of a crime and discuss the various constituent elements of both.
LO3
Demonstrate understanding of the various degrees of criminal liability.
LO4
Demonstrate understanding of the different categories of homicide and assault related offences and specific defences that may be available to same.
LO5
Analyse the law and employ knowledge and understanding in solving relevant problems.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Introduction to Criminal Law (10%)
• Origins and Purpose of Criminal Law
• Distinction between Criminal and Civil matters
• Classification of Crime
The Elements of Crime (40%)
• Actus Reus (including Causation)
• Categories of Mens Rea
• Crimes of Strict Liability
• Liability of Participants
Fatal Offences Against the Person (30%)
• Murder
• Manslaughter
Defences specific to murder - Provocation, Diminished Responsibility, Mistaken excessive use of fatal force
Assault and related offences (20%)
Assault, Assault Causing Harm, Causing Serious Harm - Sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997 - Relevance of victim consent
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
20.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
80.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Other
In-Class Assessment
This assessment will objectively assess each student’s knowledge of the fundamental elements of a crime and of criminal liability.
1,2,3
20.00
Week 7
No Project
No Practical
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Formal Exam
End-of-Semester Final Examination
1,2,3,4,5
80.00
End-of-Semester
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment