Unit name | Information Technology Law |
---|---|
Unit code | LAWD30003 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24) |
Unit director | Dr. Vranaki |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | University of Bristol Law School |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
This unit will critically examine the legal and regulatory challenges raised by information and communications technologies, such as cloud computing, social media, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. It will start by analysing the main theoretical debates about cyberspace regulation. It will then move on to consider to what extent law has successfully responded to the challenges raised by the Digital Age by considering topics, such as data privacy, intellectual property, cyber-crime, State surveillance and freedom of expression.
This unit will engage with the laws of England & Wales. Given the global nature of the Internet, this unit will also often engage with the laws of other jurisdictions including Europe and America. Consequently, students may often have to engage with legal and academic materials from multiple jurisdictions.
This unit does not require an in-depth understanding of contemporary information and communications technologies. It is primarily focused on the legal and regulatory implications of digital technologies and platforms as well as the intended and unintended consequences of regulating digital ecosystems.
By the end of the unit, a successful student will be able to explain:
Students should also be able to:
This unit is also intended to improve skills relating to research – in particular, the ability to research legal issues and areas of law.
22 lectures, 2 feedback and skills sessions and 7 tutorials.
1 x formative assessment (submitted for marking), plus additional informal formative feedback opportunities as indicated by the unit coordinator.
Formative assessments do not count towards final mark and can be optional.
2 x summative assessments (50% weighting each): 2 x 2,000 word coursework. Summative assessments do count towards final mark.
The assessments will assess all of the intended learning outcomes for this unit.