An Interdisciplinary Framework for Understanding and Cultivating Law Student Enthusiasm

Abstract

Anecdotal evidence abounds about loss of experienced by students. Law review articles too note this loss of and demoralization of students that occurs during their time in school. However, although loss of student is frequently noted, little has been done to systematically analyze student enthusiasm. Existing literature does not provide a definition of law student enthusiasm or a foundation of theory and research for understanding student and its significance in legal education.In an effort to fill gap in our understanding of student this article establishes the paradigm: a new framework for understanding and cultivating student enthusiasm. This article proposes a definition of law student enthusiasm, drawing on psychology theory and research. Specifically, this article defines law student enthusiasm as student interest for study and vitality associated with study. The article identifies cultivation of student as a priority for legal education. The article then applies psychology theory and research regarding interest and vitality to legal education, examining particular aspects of legal education that warrant reexamination through lens of paradigm. The article suggests numerous changes to legal education in order to cultivate student while also accomplishing other important goals of legal education.