How did printed books change the way English law students learned?

The rise of the printing press significantly altered the traditional methods of English legal education at the Inns of Court.12

Prior to the widespread availability of printed materials, students relied on an immersive, practical system of learning. This included attending court to observe proceedings, participating in simulated legal disputes known as moots, and attending formal lectures called readings given by senior lawyers. Students also manually copied and circulated notes taken in court, which eventually evolved into the Year Books.312

As printed books became more accessible, students began to rely increasingly on these published materials for their studies. This shift led to a decline in the importance of the traditional, interactive educational system:12

• Neglect of Practical Training: Students began to prioritize reading printed texts over attending the mandatory readings and moots.12
• Breakdown of the System: By the late 16th century, the traditional educational structure began to collapse, and by the mid-17th century, organized legal education at the Inns had virtually ceased.2
• Shift in Requirements: Eventually, the Inns moved away from requiring active participation, with some institutions eventually deeming the mere payment of fees or the act of eating dinners as sufficient to fulfill a student's educational duties.1