Lecture

Introduction to the Basics of Legal Research and Legal Citations

This module introduces the fundamental principles of legal research and the importance of legal citations. Understanding how to conduct legal research is crucial for navigating the complex landscape of copyright law.

Topics covered include:

  • Identifying reliable legal sources
  • Utilizing research databases
  • Understanding citation formats

By mastering these skills, students will be better equipped to engage with legal texts and apply their knowledge effectively.


Course Lectures
  • This module introduces the fundamental principles of legal research and the importance of legal citations. Understanding how to conduct legal research is crucial for navigating the complex landscape of copyright law.

    Topics covered include:

    • Identifying reliable legal sources
    • Utilizing research databases
    • Understanding citation formats

    By mastering these skills, students will be better equipped to engage with legal texts and apply their knowledge effectively.

  • The 1976 Copyright Act
    Keith Winstein

    This module delves into the 1976 Copyright Act, a cornerstone of copyright law in the United States. Students will learn about the historical context, key provisions, and the implications of the Act on various creative works.

    Key learning points include:

    • The definition of copyright and its purpose
    • Duration of copyright protection
    • Rights of copyright holders
    • Limitations and exceptions

    Understanding the 1976 Copyright Act is vital for anyone seeking to navigate copyright issues in today's digital environment.

  • This module examines the application of copyright law in the realms of music and computers, with a focus on Peer-to-Peer file sharing. Students will analyze landmark cases and their impact on copyright enforcement.

    Topics include:

    • The evolution of copyright in the music industry
    • Case studies on Napster and Grokster
    • Legal implications of Peer-to-Peer technology
    • Fair use considerations in digital sharing

    This exploration will provide students with a deeper understanding of the challenges and debates surrounding copyright in the digital age.

  • This module focuses on software licensing, specifically addressing issues related to DVDs and encryption. Students will explore the legal frameworks governing software use and distribution.

    Key areas of discussion include:

    • Understanding different types of software licenses
    • The role of encryption in protecting intellectual property
    • Legal challenges surrounding DVD technology
    • The implications of software licensing for developers and consumers

    By the end of this module, students will recognize the significance of licensing agreements and their impact on the software industry.