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Pinar Akman, Klaus Heine, Evert Stamhuis, Ayelet Sela, Farshida Zafar, Ittai Bar-Siman-Tov, Oren Perez, and Konstantinos Stylianou

Big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, autonomous cars, chatbots, just a few terms that have become a part of our professional legal and political vocabulary. Emerging technologies and technological advancement have confronted us in our daily practice and will continue to do so in the future. Whether we’re buying something online, taking part in an election, or chatting with friends across the globe. Technology is here and it is here to stay. However, as convenience as these new technologies may seem, they also have disruptive effects on society and pose us for legal and political challenges. These challenges are central to this MOOC on digital governance.

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Big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, autonomous cars, chatbots, just a few terms that have become a part of our professional legal and political vocabulary. Emerging technologies and technological advancement have confronted us in our daily practice and will continue to do so in the future. Whether we’re buying something online, taking part in an election, or chatting with friends across the globe. Technology is here and it is here to stay. However, as convenience as these new technologies may seem, they also have disruptive effects on society and pose us for legal and political challenges. These challenges are central to this MOOC on digital governance.

After participating in this MOOC:

- You are aware of the impact and effect of emerging technologies on law and politics.

- You can identify risks and challenges of digitization in relation to EU law, markets and economics.

- You understand the interconnectedness of problems, questions and solutions.

- You are able to break down a concrete case of digitalization impact into a sub problem.

- You can allocate problems to various fields of science or sub-fields of law.

But most importantly, you will have a lot of fun and inspiration following this course, designed by an international community of legal experts in the field of digital governance. Come with us on the journey!

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What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome to the MOOC on Digital Governance
Welcome to this open online course on Digital Governance, brought to you by the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence on Digital Governance. Centres of Excellence are awarded to outstanding research groups that have a visible societal impact and conduct cutting-edge research on an international scale. Digital Governance (DIGOV) is the name of the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence that has been awarded by the European Commission to Erasmus School of Law, in conjunction with the School of Law at the University of Leeds (UK) and the Law School of Bar-Ilan University (Israel). DIGOV organizes topical conferences and workshops, has a visiting scholar program established and will connect stakeholders from society, aiming at a better understanding of, amongst others, how to shape legal designs that integrate Big Data and Artificial Intelligence more solidly into society. An important part of the Centre's activities is the dissemination of its research, which manifests itself in this open online teaching module on Digital Governance. A central focus of the course is to learn about the basic challenges of digital governance related to legal disruption and European policy. The disruptive effect of digital technologies shall be discussed within the context of EU law and politics. Furthermore, the economic growth options for the European economy; the relation between big data and privacy; the opportunities and risks of Artificial Intelligence; product liability of digital products; application of competition law and regulation in digital markets; as well as the ethical and business aspects of digitalization will be discussed.
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Introduction to Law in the Digital Age
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.
E-Democracy
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.
Automation of Government Administration
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
Online Courts
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.
Competition and Regulation in Digital Markets
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.
Ownership of Data
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.
Peer Review: Facebook and the German Competition Authority
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.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches emerging technologies shaping legal and political practice in today's world
Governments and businesses are actively considering these issues, making this course highly relevant to industry
Taught by a consortium of experts from three universities across Europe
Covers a range of topics, including data privacy, artificial intelligence, and e-democracy, making the course well-rounded
Includes discussion prompts and quizzes to encourage active learning
Requires students to have some background knowledge in law or technology

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Digital Governance with these activities:
Review key legal principles and concepts
Refresh your understanding of fundamental legal principles and concepts to better engage with the course's discussions and topics
Show steps
  • Read through course syllabus and familiarize yourself with module topics and learning outcomes
  • Review notes or textbooks from previous law courses
  • Attend online or in-person legal workshops or seminars
Volunteer at a Legal Aid Clinic
Gain practical experience in digital governance by assisting at a legal aid clinic.
Show steps
  • Contact a legal aid clinic and inquire about volunteer opportunities
  • Assist lawyers with cases involving digital governance issues
  • Attend workshops and trainings on digital governance
Legal Research Refresher
Start by refreshing your legal research skills to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Legal Research
Show steps
  • Review case briefs on digital governance
  • Practice using legal databases like LexisNexis and Westlaw
  • Attend a legal research workshop
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Annotated Bibliography on Digital Governance
Enhance your research and critical thinking skills by compiling an annotated bibliography.
Show steps
  • Search for scholarly articles and books on digital governance
  • Read and summarize the articles
  • Write annotations that provide your insights and analysis
Form study groups with fellow learners
Engage with peers to exchange perspectives and deepen your understanding of digital governance and its implications
Browse courses on Digital Governance
Show steps
  • Organize a virtual or in-person study group meeting
  • Review course materials together and discuss key concepts
  • Work through practice problems or case studies
  • Prepare for assessments and quizzes collectively
Introduction to Data Privacy
Get an overview of data privacy laws and regulations in the EU.
Browse courses on Data Privacy
Show steps
  • Watch a tutorial video on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
  • Read an article on the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
  • Review a sample privacy policy
Explore additional resources on digital governance
Expand your knowledge by exploring supplemental materials and resources related to digital governance
Browse courses on Digital Governance
Show steps
  • Search for online articles, videos, or podcasts on specific topics
  • Attend webinars or workshops hosted by experts in the field
  • Follow relevant blogs, organizations, or social media accounts
Discussion Group on Legal Challenges of AI
Engage with your peers and discuss the legal challenges of artificial intelligence.
Show steps
  • Join a discussion group on a platform like Discord or Slack
  • Participate in weekly discussions on topics related to AI and the law
  • Share resources and articles with the group
Case Studies in Digital Governance
Deepen your understanding of digital governance by analyzing case studies.
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Show steps
  • Read a case study on the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement
  • Analyze the legal and ethical implications of the case study
  • Write a short paper on your findings
Develop a blog post on a digital governance topic
Synthesize your knowledge and contribute to the broader understanding of digital governance by creating a blog post on a chosen topic
Browse courses on Digital Governance
Show steps
  • Choose a specific topic related to digital governance
  • Conduct research and gather relevant information
  • Write a well-structured blog post that presents your findings and insights
  • Share your blog post on social media or relevant platforms
Participate in digital literacy initiatives
Apply your understanding of digital governance by volunteering your time to promote digital literacy and access to technology
Browse courses on E-Democracy
Show steps
  • Identify organizations or programs that focus on digital literacy
  • Offer your assistance in teaching digital skills to individuals or communities
  • Help organize workshops or events that promote digital inclusion
Design a Data Governance Framework
Demonstrate your understanding of data governance by designing a framework for an organization.
Browse courses on Data Governance
Show steps
  • Identify the organization's data assets and risks
  • Develop a data governance policy and procedures
  • Implement the data governance framework
The Age of Surveillance Capitalism
Expand your knowledge of the impact of data collection and surveillance on society.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the key concepts
  • Write a summary of the book
  • Discuss the book's ideas with your classmates

Career center

Learners who complete Digital Governance will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts develop and analyze policies for government agencies. This course would be useful for policy analysts who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of digital government. The course would help policy analysts to understand how to develop and implement policy strategies that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government services.
Public Administration Manager
Public administration managers oversee the day-to-day operations of government agencies. This course would be useful for public administration managers who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of digital government. The course would help public administration managers to understand how to develop and implement public administration strategies that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government services.
Public Affairs Specialist
Public affairs specialists help organizations to manage their public image and reputation. This course would be useful for public affairs specialists who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of digital government. The course would help public affairs specialists to understand how to develop and implement public affairs strategies that will influence the development and implementation of digital government policies.
Risk Management Analyst
Risk management analysts help organizations to identify and manage risks. This course would be useful for risk management analysts who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of digital government. The course would help risk management analysts to understand how to develop and implement risk management strategies that will protect their organizations from the risks of digital government.
E-Commerce Lawyer
E-commerce lawyers help businesses to comply with e-commerce laws and regulations. This course would be useful for e-commerce lawyers who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of e-commerce. The course would help e-commerce lawyers to understand how to develop and implement e-commerce policies and procedures that will protect their clients from lawsuits.
Government Relations Manager
Government relations managers represent businesses before government agencies. This course would be useful for government relations managers who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of digital government. The course would help government relations managers to understand how to develop and implement government relations strategies that will influence the development and implementation of digital government policies.
Intellectual Property Lawyer
Intellectual property lawyers help businesses to protect their intellectual property rights. This course would be useful for intellectual property lawyers who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of protecting intellectual property in the digital age. The course would help intellectual property lawyers to understand how to develop and implement intellectual property policies and procedures that will protect their clients from intellectual property infringement.
Digital Government Specialist
Digital government specialists help governments to use technology to improve the delivery of public services. This course would be useful for digital government specialists who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of digital government. The course would help digital government specialists to understand how to develop and implement digital government policies and procedures that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government services.
Competition Lawyer
Competition lawyers help businesses to comply with competition laws and regulations. This course would be useful for competition lawyers who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of competition in the digital age. The course would help competition lawyers to understand how to develop and implement competition policies and procedures that will protect their clients from antitrust lawsuits.
Privacy Lawyer
Privacy lawyers help organizations to comply with privacy laws and regulations. This course would be useful for privacy lawyers who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of protecting data and privacy in the digital age. The course would help privacy lawyers to understand how to develop and implement privacy policies and procedures that will protect their organizations from privacy breaches.
Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Artificial intelligence engineers design and develop artificial intelligence systems. This course would be useful for artificial intelligence engineers who want to learn more about the legal and ethical challenges of developing and deploying artificial intelligence systems. The course would help artificial intelligence engineers to understand how to develop and deploy artificial intelligence systems that are safe, reliable, and ethical.
Technology Policy Analyst
Technology policy analysts advise governments on the development and implementation of technology policies. This course would be useful for technology policy analysts who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of emerging technologies, such as big data and artificial intelligence. The course would help technology policy analysts to understand how to develop and implement technology policies that will promote innovation and economic growth while protecting the public interest.
Data Scientist
Data scientists use data to solve problems and make predictions. This course would be useful for data scientists who want to learn more about the legal and ethical challenges of working with data. The course would help data scientists to understand how to collect, use, and share data in a responsible way.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts protect computer systems and networks from attacks. This course would be useful for cybersecurity analysts who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges of protecting data and privacy in the digital age. The course would help cybersecurity analysts to understand how to develop and implement cybersecurity policies and procedures that will protect their organizations from cyberattacks.
Public Policy Advocate
Public policy advocates work with governments and organizations to develop and implement policies that affect the public. This course would be useful for public policy advocates who want to learn more about the legal and policy challenges posed by emerging technologies, such as big data and artificial intelligence. The course would help advocates to understand how these technologies are changing the way that we live and work, and how to develop policies that will protect the public interest.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Digital Governance.
Examines the impact of digital technologies on social inequality, with a focus on the role of access, skills, and usage.
Explores the impact of digital technology on democracy. Susskind argues that digital technology has the potential to transform democracy, but it also poses a number of challenges that need to be addressed.
Provides a historical overview of the relationship between the public and its problems. Ackerman argues that the public has always been a key actor in solving social problems, and he calls for a new approach to governance that is more responsive to the needs of the public.
Examines the future of governance. Bell argues that technology will play a key role in shaping the future of governance, and he calls for a new approach to governance that is more responsive to the challenges of the 21st century.
Provides practical guidance on how organizations can digitally transform their operations, including case studies and best practices.

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