The Imperative Role of Scholarly Research in Legal Education.

Abstract

Scholarly research is an integral aspect of legal education which can help bridge the gap between learning theoretical frameworks and practical realities. In today’s day and age, legal research has evolved itself to transcend beyond doctrinal boundaries by incorporating interdisciplinary approaches to address the various complexities of this globalised and technologically advanced world. With the introduction of Artificial Intelligence, the scope of legal education also needs to evolve beyond physical terrains and to encompass the vast digital landscape. However, this is easier said than done. There are many challenges to this endeavour including digital divide, lack of synchronisation in online learning, infrastructural shortcomings etc. To bridge this gap, fresh research and development hold the potential to serve as catalysts for creativity and innovation further driving advancements in higher education to tackle these obstacles. The National Education Policy lays specific focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches with an aim to foster innovation while reimagining legal curricula. Additionally, Clinical Legal Education and project-based research have gained prominence which has massively promoted the integration of practical skills and collaborative methodologies to make students more equipped to address real-world legal challenges. In this context, the agenda for scholarly research is not simply to keep pace with the changing contours of law but also includes steering its evolution to ensure that it remains a force for justice, equity, and societal growth. In order to align Indian legal education to international competitive standards, universities can take steps to further and incorporate opportunities like faculty and student exchanges, standardised transnational curricula, and joint degree programs with global institutions. This will not only ensure that India’s legal system remains globally competitive and socially relevant, but also innovative. This paper attempts to underscore this need and importance of integrating scholarly research, particularly towards gauging a better understanding of technology, as a cornerstone of modern legal education.