Presenter: Faye Wang
Online dispute resolution (ODR) broadly includes many forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and court proceedings (known as “e-Courts”). It is a mechanism for resolving disputes via the use of electronic communications such as emails, telecommunications application software product (i.e. Skype instant messaging), streaming media and other communication technology.
In theory, ODR can be used in most civil and commercial disputes, from contracts to torts; from family to business; and from domestic cases to international cases. However, disputes that involve electronic transactions or Internet-related cases are most suitable for the use of ODR services as documents of such cases are usually formed by electronic means. Electronic documents can be submitted easily via Internet on the ODR platform and serve as evidence. (Wang, F. Online Arbitration, Informa 2017, p.8).
ODR simulation workshop is designed to provide students a virtual l learning environment to advance their legal experience technologically. This workshop is for team-based learning and student-centred learning. Students are invited to act as complainants, opponents and arbitrators/mediators to resolve a real-life case in a virtual environment. This workshop can be conducted by both UG and PG students in any subject matters. I have organised this workshop for my students for the last 12 years. It has been well-received by students from different cultures, particularly where English is not their first language. This paper is to look into whether there are any further technological developments or tools that can enhance students’ learning experience in the ODR simulation workshop. It aims to promote the use of the ODR simulation workshop to technologically advance the practice of law for students.
