Module: LAW6010-20 Cyberlaw

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Jeffrey Wale

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.wale@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:  

This is the module for Millennials and Generation Z; looking at one of the biggest societal phenomena in lifetimes – the internet – and how the law has developed in response to the issues it raises.  It is, of course, relevant to all other generations too.

The module will consider discrete thematic, contemporary topics all connected to internet usage.  Some are regulatory, some the concern of the civil law, and some of a criminal nature (from the petty to the most serious international and state-sponsored).  It is highly topical and ever-changing as the manner of internet usage changes; and as such the content covered may change year-by-year to maintain a contemporary, relevant syllabus.

We take a comparative approach to some parts of the module; considering relevant laws in England & Wales and comparing these to other jurisdictions’ approach, to engender a contextual, critical perspective.

In this module, you will be able to demonstrate the following graduate attributes:

• Will be digitally literate:  Able to work at the interface of creativity and technology;

• Will be internationally networked:  Either by studying abroad for part of their programme, or studying alongside students from overseas;

• Will be critical thinkers:  Able to express their ideas in written and oral form, and possessing information literacy.

2.Outline syllabus:

The module will be thematic and cover contemporary legal issues as they relate to the internet.  Example topics might include:

• Cybercrime – including cyber-dependent (hacking; DDoS attacks; data offences; cyberterrorism and cyberwarfare; trolling) and cyber-enabled (fraud; illicit content; theft; cyberbullying; cyberstalking)

• Internet regulation – state and private intervention (including international comparatives); state surveillance; 

• E-commerce – Domain names; SEO, monopolies and state regulation; e-contracts and e-payments.

(Note:  Internet-related intellectual property law is considered on the Entertainment, Media & IP Law module.)

3.Teaching and learning activities:

You will be taught by way of 1x 1-hour lecture and 1x 2-hour seminar each week.  Lectures will introduce and explore substantive subjects as specified above.  Seminars will include a variety of activities including class discussion, scenario analyses, role-play, written and research exercises and other formative activities.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Presentation

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (2,500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%