LGLS 4010U – Communication Law and Policy

The course will address a range of topics governing communication in Canada and internationally, regarding the broadcasting, information and telecommunications industries, as well as how rules and policies designed for industries apply to individuals. The course content may include how broadcasting and communication policy is made, national ownership rules, program content and quality regulation, access to the media, and how each of these topics are affected by digital broadcasting and publication venues. Further topics may include freedom of expression, access to information rights, defamation law, personality rights, and whether there is a right to protect confidential sources, and how these areas of law affect the work of journalists and other newsgatherers and publishers. The course may also consider the legal and policy issues affecting producers and consumers of digital media, addressing topics such as network neutrality, broadband policy, surveillance, online reputation management and intellectual property rights.
Credit hours: 3
Lecture hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): LGLS 2940U and LGLS 2200U and 4th year standing in FSSH