In this first module we will begin to explore the relationships between the digital age and law with Dr. Ittai Bar-Siman-Tov. We will discuss the role of law in the digital age, the influence of big data on law and the legal practice. And of course the effects of data science on legal studies and research. The module contains a few videos, some readings and a few discussion prompts. We encourage you to engage with your fellow learners by actively taking part in the discussion. Remember there is no 'right or wrong' answers, the discussion prompt is to share different insights and perspectives on the topics.

In this module we introduce the concept of e-democracy and see how the digital space opens new avenues for democratic deliberation, lowering barriers for participation, realizing the vision of transparency. We will also discuss some pitfalls and challenges related to e-democracy and look into the future. Our expert, professor Oren Perez, will offer some interesting insights and share some of his research outcomes. The module contains a few videos, some readings, a few discussion prompts and some quiz questions. We encourage you to engage with your fellow learners by actively taking part of the discussion in the discussion prompt. Remember there is no 'right or wrong' answers, the discussion prompt is to share different insights and perspectives on the topics. For the quizzes, pay attention to what is being said in the videos and read the papers in the module for in depth knowledge.

In this module you will gain knowledge of digitalization in the public domain and will develop insight into the governance risks, especially for the rule of law. Attention is given to decision-making systems, surveillance systems and to the shortcomings of the incumbent legal mechanisms to afford real protection against harm and malpractice by authorities. This leads to a further confrontation with the disruptive effects of new technologies on current legal frameworks. This module contains three discussion prompts. In these prompts you are requested to share your insights and views on this complex topic. By replying to the prompts, you and peers will be able to learn from each other and exchange knowledge gained through the readings and videos. We are also welcoming your input regarding your national context, so we can truly broaden our horizon and paint a global picture on e-government

This module focuses on a fairly recent development: going to court online. While courts have been quite hesitant and maybe even resistant to change, in recent years it has become clear that the traditional court model is not working well for all courts and for all users. Courts are overburdened with cases, and many people are limited in exercising their right to go to court. Against this backdrop, there are calls for rethinking how courts might redesign their procedures and leverage technology to help lay people claim and defend their rights. Together with our expert dr. Ayelet Sela we will explore the motivations and innovations of online courts, focusing on how online courts enhance access to justice.

In this module, you will develop an understanding of how competition and regulation in digital markets have a role to play in ensuring that these markets deliver the best outcomes for all participants in the digital economy including consumers and businesses. At the end of the module, you will have a grasp of the basic concepts of competition and regulation in digital markets and when it may be necessary for authorities to intervene in such markets to ensure that they remain competitive. The module will also allow you to build a deeper understanding of the common features of digital markets with online platforms, features of multi-sided platform markets, and the fundamental principles of competition law and regulation. The module will also allow you to take a closer look at some examples of competition law interventions against practices of big technology companies such as Google and Amazon, and at regulations from around the world regarding different business practices of big technology companies.

In this module you will learn about the role of property rights for a fair and efficient use of data. The allocation of property rights on data determine to a large degree who is allowed to do what with data and to whom the benefits of data use accrue. Thereby the design of ownership can range from pure public ownership to pure private ownership. In many real world situations only a very specific legal design and allocation of data ownership will incentivise individuals to align their actions with social goals.

This module consists of the final assessment of this course. You will have to apply the knowledge and insights you gained to a specific Digital Governance case regarding Facebook. We will put you in the role of an advisor to the Prime Minisiter of your country who is struggling with the competition problems Facebook’s digital business model creates. You will advise your Prime Minister with a report that consists of a useful design of data ownership rights that helps to maintain competition in the market for social networks on the one hand and to preserve data privacy of users on the other.