REEL TO REAL: USING FILM REFLECTIONS TO CULTIVATE CRITICAL THINKING IN PROFESSIONAL ETHICS EDUCATION

Izawati Wook; Mashitah Abdul Mutalib; Arif Fahmi Md. Yusof

doi:10.31436/iiumlj.v34i1.1131

Authors

Izawati Wook Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Malaysia
Mashitah Abdul Mutalib Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Malaysia
Arif Fahmi Md. Yusof Faculty of Syariah and Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31436/iiumlj.v34i1.1131

Keywords:

Professional Ethics, Experiential Learning, Film-Based Reflection, Legal Education

Abstract

Traditional doctrinal teaching methods often struggle to bridge the gap between theoretical ethical rules and the realities of legal practice. This study explores the use of film-based reflective assignments in the teaching and learning of the Professional Ethics course involving a group of final-year Malaysian law students at a public university. Guided by experiential and reflective learning theories, the assignment tasked the students with analysing ethical dilemmas depicted in films. Students identified ethical issues, and analysed the issues by applying the Legal Profession Act 1976, the Legal Profession (Practice and Etiquette) Rules 1978, the relevant rules and rulings of the Malaysian Bar Council, and relevant case law through creative video presentations and a short-written report. Thematic analysis of the reflections revealed two primary ethical themes: integrity of the judicial process and professional independence in prioritising justice over personal or external interests. Students demonstrated a high level of contextual application of legal frameworks, moral reasoning, and creativity through the short video presentations. Survey results showed high perceived relevance (mean 9.31/10) and preference for film-based assessment, despite minor technical challenges. Findings suggest that integrating film-based reflection can bridge doctrinal learning and professional practice in legal education, fostering ethical awareness, digital literacy, and the formation of professional identity.

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