Information Technology is characterised by the ease and speed with which data can be processed and communicated. Whilst generally beneficial, these characteristics have created new legal problems e.g. computer hacking, abuse of personal data. In Information Technology Law we will consider the way law has responded to these difficulties. This will involve a study of:

- data protection
- computer crime
- the Internet
- intellectual property and IT
- civil liability

Whole group sessions will be used to introduce broad concepts but will also involve some workshop exercises - 2 hour per week for 22 weeks = 44 hours.

Small group tutorials will be used to explore the topics studied in greater depth using a variety of learning strategies including problem solving, online research exercises and pyramiding exercises - 5 hours per semester = 10 hours.

Directed Study will include preparation for small group sessions and assessments - 246 hours

TOTAL LEARNING TIME = 300 hours.

Access to appropriate texts, legislation and case law.
Module Study Guides
Computing facilities will be needed to access material available on the web and specialist on-line databases.

Lloyd, I. (2004). Information Technology Law, 4th ed. Butterworths.
Bainbridge, D. (2004). Introduction to Computer Law, 5th ed. Pitman.
Chris Reed (Ed) (2003).: Computer Law, 5th ed. Blackstone Press.

2,500 word assignment, which will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 (40%)

Collaborative Tutorial Presentation, which will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 (20%)

Un-seen 2 hour examination, which will assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 (40%)

To pass this module, students must obtain a mark of at least 40%.
Students must obtain at least 35% in both the coursework and examination elements of the module.