Course Overview
The law touches on many different aspects of journalism, not least because it provides compelling stories touching all aspects of our complex lives. The law also dictates what journalists can and cannot do in the course of reporting, and how they need to conduct their own business affairs. It guarantees freedom of expression, but it also delivers consequences when publication crosses over into defamation. It governs the economic relationships within journalism, through the law of contract and copyright. Journalists working in old media and new media cannot do their jobs well without a working knowledge of legal concepts and the courts. This course will offer a primer on various aspects of journalism and the law, the basics of defamation, the law of copyright and contract - as well touching on ethical issues that may arise within the profession.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- Describe the Canadian legal system, including the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, creation of legislation and the court system.
- Discuss the concept of privacy on the internet.
- Discuss the impact of tort law including defamation and negligence.
- Employ best practices related to information sourcing, verification and copyright.
- Examine all forms of Canadian intellectual property law including trademark and licensing issues.
- Discuss international aspects of intellectual property law and potential conflicts.
- Describe the components of an enforceable contract, and the resulting obligations and consequences.
- Discuss the ethics of reporting.
- Discuss the legal and ethical responsibilities involved in moderating online public dialogue and discussion.
- Discuss the consequences of integrating tools such as blogs, microblogs, social media and video to tell a news story.
- Explain the difference between an independent contractor and the employer-employee relationship and the responsibilities of each party.
- Describe the different forms of business organization and the advantages/disadvantages of each.
- Demonstrate basic knowledge of law and recognize legal issues as they arise.
- Apply law to facts in business and digital-design problems.
- Communicate legal concepts effectively.
- Analyze legal documents and digital-design projects to reduce legal risk.
Effective as of Spring/Summer 2014
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.