Concord offers a creative and innovative
program that is on the forefront of changing the way legal education is
offered. Through Internet technologies, we are creating an accessible,
progressive learning environment that strives to address different
learning styles and the preferences of adult learners.
Courses by Module
Each Concord course is organized in a series of modules. In a
year-long JD course, students work through 30 modules on an optimum pace
of about 11 days per module. Modules function as an interactive
syllabus, providing access to assignments and organizing one’s studies.
Building on the past, each module includes repetition and reinforcement
of legal concepts through reading assignments, video lectures, organized
discussion, writing assignments, multiple-choice quizzes, and other
exercises.
Asynchronous Recorded Lectures Available 24/7
Lectures by prominent legal experts and academics are integrated in
the courses. In a bricks-and-mortar program, professors generally use
the classroom for both lecture and discussion. Concord creates a more
flexible learning environment with the use of audio and video lectures
available on the Internet 24/7.
Synchronous Classes
Students meet with their professor online in live classes over the
Internet. Students hear the professor through streaming audio and
communicate in text. During the class, professors may challenge students
to learn how to apply law to a fact pattern through the use of
hypotheticals and cases not yet decided. Or, they may use the time as a
forum to demonstrate the uncertainty of law. Whatever the topic, the
diversity of student experiences at Concord contributes to the vibrancy
of the discussions and helps create learning communities where respect
is shown to others with whom one might disagree.
Systematic Feedback
Unlike many traditional law curriculums, Concord is committed to
providing students with continuing feedback. Students answer numerous
essay questions and perform other writing assignments throughout the
courses. The exercises are thoroughly reviewed and critiqued. The
paperless technology facilitates tracking and the prompt return of
assignments.
Professors are always available to talk with students or discuss
their coursework via email. The Concord learning platform allows us to
keep track of how both students and faculty are doing, and we take full
advantage of that opportunity.