Monthly Archives: July 2024

Gender Gaps in Legal Education: The Impact of Class Participation Assessments

The ‘gender gap’ is a well-studied empirical phenomenon globally. Studies in many places show that female candidates are systemically disadvantaged and underperform as compared to their male counterparts in many areas, even after controlling for other factors. Although much of this work has focused on the labour market, gender gaps have also been observed in educational outcomes, opportunities, and experience. These include the sciences, business, as well as law. Although the gender gap in law may not be as wide as in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses, major studies in the United States (US) show evidence of significant gender disparities in legal education. This gender gap is reflected in differential grades, differential classroom and out of classroom experiences, as well as differential educational outcomes and career prospects.

Should Swearing be Punished by the Criminal Law?

Australians have a reputation for laidback attitudes towards swearing. But did you know that across Australia, it is a crime to use offensive language in or near a public place?

Much of my research considers the relationship between language, power and the criminal law. In my recent article, ‘It might be powerful; but is it offensive? Unpacking judicial views on the c-word’, I consider the legal treatment of a common Australian swear word: ‘c___t’. My article asks two questions: Have societal attitudes towards this word changed in Australia? And if they have, how should its use be judged by the criminal law?