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The use of computers and the Internet 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. This module aims to consider the ways the law has responded to these difficulties. Important note: Students do not have to be computer scientists to undertake this module but should have a working knowledge of computers and the internet.

IT Law examines the legal problems that have arisen due to the massive increase in the use of computers in society during the last quarter of the 20th century and the first years of this new one. This has created many challenges to existing law - e.g. when is a contract formed using email, or when goods are bought online? In addition, it has revealed deficiencies in existing law - e.g. should it be a criminal offence to use one’s work computer for personal purposes?  It is probably true to say that the solutions to these problems have not created a new legal discipline but there is much that can be gained by pursuing the common theme of how computers impact on law.

During the course of this module, we will examine: computer crimes, evidence, international and comparative aspects, civil liability, electronic commerce, data protection, intellectual property and other legal issues arising from the increased use of the Internet.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. demonstrate comprehensive and accurate knowledge and understanding of those areas of information technology law identified in the indicative syllabus above and form a reasoned critical judgment on areas of difficulty and uncertainty in IT Law;

2. demonstrate a sound knowledge and critical understanding of social and economic policy considerations arising in this area e.g. in relation to online selling and buying;

3. critically analyse complex problems in relation to the use of information technology, apply the legal principles studied to these problems, evaluate the merits of alternative solutions to the same problem and present well supported conclusions both orally and in writing;

4. read and study primary and secondary sources of IT law, with minimal tutor guidance; critically analyse, interpret, evaluate and synthesise information from a variety of sources;

5. identify sources for research and further establish a strategy for research using standard and electronic research tools

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.