Research and theory

Plenet is developing a selection of national and international papers on legal theory and research relating to public legal education. We hope that through expanding this body of knowledge and expertise of what makes for effective PLE, we can build and develop the capacity of PLE.

The number of papers included is relatively small at the moment reflecting the lack of specific research on the role of public legal education and the inaccessibility of many papers. The papers have been divided into key reading and further reading for those who like to look in more detail at some of the theories relating to public legal education.

Key reading includes Plenet's own research into young peoples' legal capability and their experience of tackling legal problems. Plenet believes that further research is needed, both theoretical and empirical to assess need, identify gaps, and help develop initiatives to widen the delivery of public legal education.

Plenet is keen to encourage inter-disciplinary learning and relationships, and encourage researchers and scholars to contribute to the PLE movement.