The selected topic must make conceptual sense, have sufficient academic content and be pursued by feasible research methods. The project should preferably aim at publishable conclusions, in whole or part by adaptation, for instance in a journal article, in submissions to a ministry, law reform agency or other governmental or professional committee, or for presentation by special interest groups, such as consumer's groups. Types of Directed Research Team projects and interdisciplinary research are permitted and encouraged. Empirically-oriented research projects are also encouraged. The final paper should reflect not merely the results of data gathering, but an analysis of the data and, where appropriate, of the methods used.
Students are welcome to build upon data gathering undertaken in other contexts, such as summer jobs.
Students with experience in a clinical setting may prepare a research paper relevant to their work or experiences. Students may develop themes relevant, for instance, to welfare law, immigration law, workers' compensation, landlord-tenant and rent review, family and child law, and minor criminal and delinquency matters, addressing substantive, procedural or administrative aspects. Papers may take the form of a traditional academic paper, memoranda on cases handled by students, briefs for presentation to private or governmental agencies, or other forms acceptable to faculty supervisors and the Directed Research Committee. Proposal Requirements Interested students are encouraged to approach members of the teaching faculty with a coincidental interest to discuss their project, to seek supervision, and to seek advice in drafting their proposal. This information is considered in determining credit allocation for the project and should be presented so as to justify the credit proposed.