Courses
What it Means to Solve Problems Like a Lawyer
About the course
This introductory course helps learners recognize that problem solving is a skill they already use in everyday life. Through relatable scenarios, it shows how lawyers approach challenges more intentionally-by slowing down, asking better questions, and using simple structure to bring clarity to uncertain situations.
Using a real-world example of a student facing a housing issue, learners see how small shifts in thinking can reduce overwhelm and improve decision-making. The course also introduces two foundational approaches-structured problem solving and design thinking-preparing learners to build these skills more deeply in the rest of the series.
Using a real-world example of a student facing a housing issue, learners see how small shifts in thinking can reduce overwhelm and improve decision-making. The course also introduces two foundational approaches-structured problem solving and design thinking-preparing learners to build these skills more deeply in the rest of the series.
Syllabus
- M1Not completed
Welcome
Introduces the idea that problem solving is a skill learners already have and shows how lawyers use structure to approach it more intentionally. - M2Not completed
Jordan's Housing Problem
Presents a realistic scenario where a learner sees how reacting quickly to a stressful problem can lead to confusion and overwhelm. - M3Not completed
Reflection: You Already Solve Problems
Helps learners recognize their existing problem-solving habits and understand that their current approaches can be strengthened, not replaced. - M4Not completed
What Lawyers Mean by "Problem Solving"
Explains that legal problem solving is about thinking clearly through uncertainty using simple, structured steps rather than having all the answers. - M5Not completed
Two Ways Lawyers Approach Problems
Introduces two key frameworks-step-by-step problem solving and design thinking-as tools for approaching different types of challenges. - M6Not completed
Return to Jordan: What Structure Changes
Revisits the scenario to show how pausing and applying structure can bring clarity without immediately changing the situation. - M7Not completed
Personal Strengths in Problem Solving
Emphasizes that people bring different strengths to problem solving and that structure helps them use those strengths more effectively. - M8Not completed
Why This Matters (Now and Later)
Connects structured problem solving to real-life benefits, both in everyday situations and in more complex future challenges. - M9Not completed
Wrap-Up & What's Next
Reinforces key takeaways and prepares learners to continue building their skills by focusing next on identifying the real problem. - M10Not completed
Knowledge Check
Allows learners to apply what they've learned by evaluating scenarios and recognizing how structured thinking improves decision-making.