Course Title: Contemporary Sentencing

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Contemporary Sentencing

Credit Points: 12.00

Course Coordinator: Michele Ruyters

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 2537

Course Coordinator Email: michele.ruyters@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: 37.04.07

Course Coordinator Availability: By appointment

Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None. 

Course Description

This course looks at the theory and practice of sentencing with a specific focus on the influences that shape sentencing policy.. You will consider the relationship between contemporary sentencing philosophy, including the substantive law, as well as the role of the public and the media in sentencing policy. You will also consider human rights aspects of sentencing.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

In this course, you will develop the following graduate capabilities:

• Critical analysis and problem solving

• Informed professional practice

• Communication

On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

a) Explain some of the elements that make up the public policy process in relation to existing sentencing laws and sentencing reform options;

b) Evaluate the influences on the making of sentencing policy; 

c) Debate the constituent elements of a range of sentencing options including alternative approaches to traditional punitive measures; 

d) Critically appraise competing policy considerations that impact on sentencing reform

e) Demonstrate the application of sentencing laws and principles to fact based problems

Overview of Learning Activities

This course is generally delivered online in a series of modules. Learning is delivered through online reading/research and online activities. The course may be delivered face-to-face. In this mode, learning activities will include lectures, seminars, tutorials, guest speakers, presentations, case studies, videos, and student lead discussions.

Overview of Learning Resources

There may be a prescribed text for this course. RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems.

Overview of Assessment

Assessment Tasks

You will be assessed on how well you meet the learning outcomes of this course and on your development against the program capabilities. Assessment may include essays, quizzes, online activities, and group work. Feedback will be given on all assessment tasks. There is no formal examination in this course.  

If you have a long term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or the Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.

Your course assessment conforms to RMIT assessment principles, regulations, policies, procedures and instructions.