LAW5603 - Comparative cyberlaw - 2018

This unit introduces students to comparative analysis of the law and social issues arising from the use of the Internet for commerce, education and entertainment. The unit will address complex legal and policy issues in areas such as jurisdiction, Internet governance, electronic contracting, content regulation and copyright. There will be sufficient flexibility to examine new issues as they arise.

On completion of this subject, students will be able to:

• apply knowledge and understanding of the law relating to the internet, demonstrating sophisticated awareness of the theoretical and policy concerns underpinning key areas of comparative cyberlaw;
• investigate, analyse and synthesise complex information concerning the application of selected areas of the law to the Internet;
• conduct research into issues relating to the application of comparative law and policy to the Internet; and
• use cognitive, technical and creative skills to solve complex problems relating to technology, law and policy.

Attendance requirement: Students who fail to attend at least 80% of the classes in this unit (ie who miss 3 or more classes) will receive a result of 0 N for the unit. Students who are unable to meet this requirement due to severe illness or other exceptional circumstances must make an application for in-semester special consideration with supporting documentation.

Class participation with a written paper (1500 words): 20%

One research assignment (6000 words): 80%

Students are required to attend 36 hours of lectures over the duration of this semi-intensive unit.