To examine the logic and rationale of privacy and data protection (as set out in the UK, EU and other international instruments)

To assess the policy and practical significance of the Internet, social media and communication tools for regulation

To identify and critically appraise the potential of the Internet and new communication technologies to both undermine and enhance privacy values and norms

(LO1) Identify and discuss key privacy and data protection concepts, articulate their rationale and relevance within policy, commercial and political settings.

(LO2) Demonstrate an understanding of the nature of digital information and the practical implications of technological convergence for managing personal information and threats to privacy, particularly in the context of online social media networks and communication services.

(LO3) Explain the interaction of legal norms with the regulatory effects of IT and other non-legal instruments, such as sectoral codes of practice.

(LO4) Evaluate the key debates and assess the potential of the Internet and new communication technologies to both undermine and enhance privacy values and norms.

(S1) Describe and apply privacy and data protection concepts to actual or hypothetical situations in a reasoned, accurate and concise manner.

(S2) Formulate key issues from debates relating to surveillance and privacy threats arising within the context of the Internet and social media.

(S3) Organize issues, knowledge and argument in a way that is readily comprehensible to others.

(S4) Collate and synthesise primary and secondary sources obtained from both course materials and independent research.

Syllabus Content streamlined:
1: Privacy in a Digital World.
2: Data Protection Act 2018 and Framing Rights, Duties and Responsibilities.
3: Data Protection Act 2018 and Management of Risks and Remedies.
4: Privacy and the Internet of Things.

Teaching Pattern
6 x 2hr synchronous sessions (Seminars)
Numerous asynchronous recording (covering material previously addressed in lectures)

Module Delivery
Combination of asynchronous and synchronous sessions comprising use of asynchronous tools, short 20 minute recordings, multiple choices questions, discussion boards, self-reflection exercises, targeted learning materials provided in Canvas, collaborative and individual problem solving tasks (synchronous).