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2021-2022 College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

PAR 213 - Computer-Assisted Legal Research

3 Credits, 3 Contact Hours
3 lecture periods 0 lab periods

Computer assisted research systems. Includes historical development, full-text system; Westlaw, search techniques, and display elements, databases, special services, and Internet searching.

Prerequisite(s): PAR 103  
Information: Prerequisite may be waived with equivalent research experience; see a PAR advisor or course instructor.
  button image Prior Learning and link to PLA webpage


Course Learning Outcomes
  1. Integrate the traditional methods of research with the computer assisted methods.
  2. Define the elements of a search using full-text computer assisted legal databases.
  3. Demonstrate the ability to put elements together to form an efficient query.
  4. Demonstrate the basics of accessing a computer assisted legal research system and the use of the database menu.
  5. Demonstrate the use of principles of accessing and using special services on a computer legal research system.
  6. Demonstrate the use of various internet searching techniques available for use on a computer assisted legal research system
Outline:

I. Historical Development

  1. Computer-assisted methods of research
  2. Traditional methods of research
  1. Full Text System: Westlaw
    1. Searching primary materials
    2. Searching secondary materials
  2. Search Techniques and Display Elements
    1. Elements of a search
    2. Putting elements together to form a query
    3. Hands-on basics
    4. Viewing and browsing search results
  3. Databases
    1. Primary materials
    2. Secondary and other materials 
  4. Special Services
    1. Citation verification
    2. Enhanced search features
  5. Internet Searching
    1. Search engines and websites
    2. Search techniques

Effective Term:
Fall 2011