At University of Essex Online, we assess students using a variety of methods including written assignments, discussion forums, reflective journal entries and oral presentations. While many students are familiar with written assessments, oral presentations are often new, especially when the presentation is conducted as moot.

In reality, there is nothing to worry about oral presentation and/or moot. This week’s blog addresses your queries about oral presentations, and especially moot, in order to prepare you for this exciting and challenging assessment.

 

What is a moot presentation?

A moot is a mock appeal. It is a legal argument on a point or points of law before an appeal court – usually the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) of England and Wales or the Supreme Court of the UK. A hypothetical case scenario will be provided along with the role of a student as a counsel in that case during the module. More information about moot preparation and etiquette will be provided during the module.

 

How long will my presentation last?

Details of the moot presentation will be provided at the start of the module that includes moot assessment. Typically, an individual presentation lasts for 12 to 15 minutes (including the judge’s question time).

 

What topic should it cover?

The topic will be set by your course tutor and you will be asked to prepare submissions and arguments. It will be relevant to the topics that you are studying at that time.

 

Do I need to be on camera?

No, don’t worry! You will only be asked to appear via audio.

 

Do I need special equipment?

No. You should be able to call in on your phone, or use the microphone on your computer or laptop. We recommend that you use a headset if you choose to use your computer, as this will eliminate any background noise.

 

Can I pre-record my assessment?

Unfortunately not. The oral assessments will follow moot etiquette, which requires interaction with the tutor and therefore that the assessment takes place ‘live’.

 

How should I prepare?

There are lots of simple ways to prepare; here are our top tips:

• Test your microphone or phone before your assessment to make sure it works.
• Practise key words and phrases that are relevant to your topic to avoid stumbling over words during the assessment.
• Make sure you understand legal terms and vocabulary you might be unfamiliar with.
• Practise with a friend, colleague or fellow student.
• Make sure you speak slowly and clearly.
• Have a glass of water nearby during your assessment.
• Make sure you know the time of your presentation – don’t be late!

 

Do you think you’re ready to take on the challenge of a moot presentation? Find out more about our law courses and download our prospectus here.