LA9FM-20 International Commercial Law in the Digital Economy
Introductory description
The main purpose of this module is to introduce students to: a) the key implications for commerce of the digital economy, b) the legal implications which these developments create, c) existing and possible legal solutions to these problems (from a regional, international and comparative perspective).
Module aims
The main purpose is to introduce students to: (i) the key implications for commerce of the digital economy; (ii) the legal implications which these developments create; (iii) existing and possible legal solutions to these problems (from a regional, international and comparative perspective).
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
The Digital Economy and New Business models (general introduction to the main innovations in the context of the digital economy, including on-line platforms, blockchain technology, connected devices (internet of things) and 3D-printing)
Law and Technological Developments – General Issues (what are the implications of technological developments for the law generally, and does the digital economy raise particular issues?)
Establishing a business in the digital economy (Branding, Domain Names, Electronic Contracting and Electronic Payment)
Software, Apps, Digital Content (legal classification, analysis of legal rules relating to the supply of digital content; possible application of international commercial law instruments)
The Platform Economy (legal relationships within the platform economy; regulation of on-line platforms; consumer protection; the fluid status of suppliers in the platform economy)
Additive Layer Manufacturing (3D printing) – quality, liability and intellectual property issues
Connected devices and the Internet of Things (including automated contracting; liability issues; focus on self-driving vehicles)
Data in the Digital Economy (data protection, data as non-pecuniary consideration; data as a tradable commodity)
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the main legal challenges of the digital economy.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how current law applies to (some of) these challenges.
- Discuss and critique proposals for new legislative initiatives and law reform in respect of the digital economy.
Research element
To write a 4,000 word research essay.
Subject specific skills
No subject specific skills defined for this module.
Transferable skills
No transferable skills defined for this module.
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Tutorials | 9 sessions of 1 hour (4%) |
| Online learning (independent) | 9 sessions of 1 hour (4%) |
| Private study | 182 hours (91%) |
| Total | 200 hours |
Private study description
No private study requirements defined for this module.
Other activity description
Consultation
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group A1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
Assessment component |
|||
| 4000 word research essay | 100% | Yes (extension) | |
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A 4,000 word research essay. |
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Reassessment component is the same |
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Feedback on assessment
Students will be given the opportunity to discuss an outline plan for their essay in advance to provide feedback on focus and structure of their essay. Students will receive individual feedback on their essays after the marking process has been completed via Tabula.
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 1 of TIMA-L981 Postgraduate Social Science Research
- Year 1 of TLAA-M3PJ Postgraduate Taught Advanced Legal Studies
- Year 1 of TLAS-M3P7 Postgraduate Taught International Economic Law
- Year 1 of TLAS-M221 Postgraduate Taught LLM in International Corporate Governance and Financial Regulation
This module is Option list A for:
- Year 1 of TLAA-M223 Postgraduate Taught International Commercial Law