PARLGL 108 - Legal Research - Nicole Faudree

Introduction

This course will cover legal research in libraries, online via subscription (pay) and free resources. Legal research is a keystone to the law. Paralegals and other interested in law as a career will benefit from learning about the process and sources to research the law.

Course Description

Covers legal research tools (hard copy and computer databases) and strategies, including primary authority (cases, statutes, regulations, and constitution) and secondary authority.

What to Expect in this Course

Students should expect to attend weekly Zoom instruction sessions. While turning your camera on is not required, it is expected when students are in breakout rooms with their classmates. Students may participate in discussion boards, weekly quizzes, weekly research questions at the end of the chapter, and 2 cumulative exams (midterm and final). In addition, students will research various legal topics to solve a problem of hypothetical clients. 

Students will use National Society for Legal Technology Legal Research modules, which will require time to complete.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Students should expect to work in the NSLT legal research modules for at least 3 hours per week, in addition to the class meeting.

Types of Assessments

Students may participate in discussion boards, weekly quizzes, weekly research questions at the end of the chapter, and 2 cumulative exams (midterm and final). In addition, students will research various legal topics to solve a problem of hypothetical clients. 

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Students will work in the NSLT Legal Research platform to complete weekly assignments. Students should expect to work in the modules for at least 3 hours per week, in addition to the class meeting.

Textbook Information

OER/ZTC. The college provides access to the NSLT Legal Research platform.

Other Relevant Course Information

I typically add all the students on the waitlist. 

For all students: to be successful in this course, know that the study of law is a marathon and not a sprint. You will do much better in this course, manage expectations and be the most successful, if you do your work each week and not cram it all in at the end of the term.

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 01/28/2025 Sub#: 1890