LAW5342 - Current issues in electronic commerce law - 2017

This unit analyses electronic commerce law as a form of commercial law that incorporates technological innovation and reflects the globalisation of markets. A foundation for analysing specific laws is provided by introducing the idea of an emerging 'global lex mercatoria', providing an overview of the technology used in electronic commerce, introducing some basic electronic commerce business models, and comparing diverse national responses to the growth of electronic commerce. Specific laws governing electronic signatures and other identity management systems, electronic contracting, electronic payments will be analysed in light of those foundational concepts. The unit may also consider related competition and trade practices issues, consumer protection, information privacy, electronic commerce security and jurisdiction.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

• Apply knowledge, and understanding, of the technical foundation of electronic commerce with creativity and initiative to new situations in professional practice and/or for further learning
• Investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories in relation to e-commerce systems for government, business, consumers and citizens in conducting their transactions electronically.
• Conduct research in electronic commerce law based on knowledge of appropriate research principle and methods.
• Use cognitive, technical and creative skills to generate and evaluate at an abstract level complex ideas and concepts relevant to electronic commerce law.

Reseach paper (3,750 words): 50%

Take-home examination (3,000 words): 40%

Class participation: 10%

24 contact hours per semester (either intensive, semi-intensive or semester long, depending on the Faculty resources, timetabling and requirements). Students will be expected to do reading set for class, and to undertake additional research and reading applicable to a 6 credit point unit.