BTW3641

Information law

6 points · 3-4 hours per week · Prerequisites: BTW1010, BEW1601 and BEW2621

Objectives On completion of this subject students will have demonstrated an understanding of the way in which the Internet can enable the flow of information globally and have developed the capacity to analyse the legal implications of information exposure on the Internet in terms of international and country-specific law. This then will enable students further to have developed an understanding of aspects of existing law in relation to such areas as contract law (in particular international and computer contracts), intellectual property (including copyright law) and privacy issues. Subsequently students will have explored trends developing in information law and evaluated means by which participants in electronic commerce may minimise their legal risks.

Synopsis This subject will examine the ease and manner in which information can now be transmitted, accessed and transacted around the world instantaneously by the interconnection of computers (the Internet); legal methods by which the law has attempted to regulate this 'flow' of information and its use in business and commerce will be explored. Contract law (in particular international and computer contracts), intellectual property (including copyright law) and privacy issues will be examined.

Assessment Assignment one (1500 words): 20% · Assignment two research report (2500 words): 30% · Examination (3 hours): 50% · Successful completion of this subject will be contingent on the student demonstrating a satisfactory level of performance in each element of assessment.

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