Course Description
Welcome to "Intellectual Property Law and Policy: Part 2 - Copyright & Trademark," an engaging and comprehensive exploration of the modern landscape of intellectual property rights. This intermediate-level course, offered by PennX, is the second part of a two-part series that delves deep into the fascinating world of copyright and trademark laws. As we navigate through the complexities of these legal frameworks, you'll gain invaluable insights into the theories, practices, and policy implications that shape our digital age.
What students will learn from the course
- A thorough understanding of copyright and trademark laws, including their underlying theories and practical applications.
- The ability to analyze and interpret seminal legal cases in intellectual property law.
- Critical thinking skills to evaluate the policy implications of current IP laws.
- An exploration of alternatives to traditional intellectual property systems.
- Insight into the future trends and potential reforms in IP law.
Pre-requisites or skills necessary to complete the course
Good news! This course has no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to anyone with an interest in intellectual property law. While some background in law or economics might be helpful, it's not required. The course is designed to accommodate learners from various backgrounds who are eager to understand the intricate world of IP law.
What the course will cover
- An in-depth exploration of copyright laws and their practical applications
- A comprehensive study of trademark laws and their impact on business and society
- Analysis of significant legal cases that have shaped IP law
- Examination of the limitations and exceptions to copyright and trademark protections
- Discussion of fair use doctrine and its implications
- Exploration of IP law in the digital age, including cyberspace considerations
- Investigation of potential IP law reforms and alternative systems
Who this course is for
This course is perfect for:
- Law students looking to specialize in intellectual property
- Business professionals seeking to understand IP protections
- Creators, artists, and innovators wanting to protect their work
- Policymakers and legislators interested in IP law reform
- Anyone curious about the legal frameworks that govern our digital world
How learners can use these skills in the real world
The knowledge gained from this course has numerous real-world applications. Students will be better equipped to:
- Protect their own intellectual property or advise others on IP protection
- Navigate complex copyright and trademark issues in business settings
- Contribute to policy discussions on IP law reform
- Understand the legal implications of digital content creation and sharing
- Make informed decisions about fair use and potential infringement
- Anticipate future trends in IP law and prepare for potential changes
Syllabus
Week 1: A User's Guide to Copyright
- Subject matter and limits on copyrightability
- Standards for copyright
- Idea-expression and functionality limitations
Week 2: The Scope of Copyright
- Copyright infringement: direct and indirect
Week 3: Limits on Copyright Law
- Fair use doctrine
- Other limitations on copyright owners' rights
Week 4: User's Guide to Trademarks
- Introduction to trademarks
- Trademark subject matter
- Functionality limitation
Week 5: The Scope of Trademarks
- Trademark infringement
- Trademark dilution
Week 6: Limits on Trademarks and Policy
- Trademark fair use
- Trademarks in cyberspace
Week 7: IP Reform
- Future possibilities for reform
- Alternative systems to current IP laws
Join us on this exciting journey through the world of intellectual property law and policy. By the end of this course, you'll have a robust understanding of copyright and trademark laws, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of IP in our modern, digital world.