IP & Technology: International Institutions (P02584)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : LAW-P-LW0042

We have all heard about the revolution caused by the emergence of globalisation in all areas of society – and the law is no exception to this trend.
This module explores two areas of the law where globalisation has brought considerable change: information technology (IT) law and intellectual property (IP) law. A number of new institutions have emerged, providing policy and regulation in these areas of law. Existing institutions have had to evolve, and alter the way that they set policies. The sweeping changes resulting range from international commercial relationships and trade, to public-interest policy questions regarding developing countries, governance and access to technology.
This module will study these institutions, to ascertain their constitution, structure, effectiveness and relevance, with a specific focus on some of the most pressing policy choices faced by governments, institutions and stakeholders, and how these policy choices are translated into the law.
In relation to IT law, the module will concentrate on the institutions that regulate and police new technologies, particularly those related to the ‘information society’. We will also analyse problems relating to accessing these technologies, and consider how current regulation affects choices.
With regard to IP law, the module will investigate the international institutions that protect new technologies, folklore and traditional resources. The most important developments and trends in these fields will be covered from an international perspective.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Law, (School of Law, Schedule F)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 1 (Blocks 1-2)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

The aims of this module are to:
• define key concepts related to international institutions, intellectual property and technology in general
• discuss the application of technology to modern life, in the shape of the 'information society'
• analyse the most pressing substantive and policy issues faced by international IT and IP institutions
• outline the different types of international regulation emerging in the areas of intellectual property and information technology
• address specific case-studies that illustrate the theoretical framework studied.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:
• identify and critically discuss the latest developments in international IP and IT law and policy
• recognise and understand the constitution of the most important international IP law institutions
• explain the international framework that regulates, manages and protects interests in relation to new technologies, in particular the information society.

Assessment Information

80% essay (5000 words)
20% Class Assignment: This is a group research project and group presentation.
The class is divided into groups that will research one of the assigned topics. Teams cannot exceed four members. The exercise consists of two elements, a written report and a presentation. Each element will be worth 10% of the final mark.