Like or not, social media is a huge part of modern day life.
And while it’s fun to share and upload our stories online, inevitably the growth in popularity of social media has led to a discussion of how our laws apply to this rapidly changing technology.
The most obvious example of this relates to social media and defamation. Other areas where social media law is increasingly getting attention include privacy, copyright, litigation, and criminal law.
It is now crucial to be aware of the policy and laws surrounding social media and how it is accessed.
Social Media and the Law (LAW366 and LLM566) should be a priority unit for any future aspiring legal mind. It is a practical and innovative unit that will equip you with the skills and confidence to critique and enhance your individual digital footprint.
In addition, you will gain a firm grounding in a range of legal issues which are relevant to the worldwide prevalence of social media use.
To provide more insight into this invaluable unit, we spoke to Social Media and the Law Unit Coordinator, Senior Lecturer Julia Day.
Please find her Q&A below.
Tell us a little about yourself?
I grew up in Suva, Sydney and Armidale. I have been a lecturer at the Law School for many years. During this time I have undertaken a myriad of roles. In terms of teaching I have taught many law units, but generally have focused on Torts Law and Health Law units. I am excited to be coordinating Social Media Law for the second time in Trimester two. Social Media and the Law is ‘my baby’ and was devised in light of my experience as head of Communications and Engagement at the Law School. I am also about to submit my PhD(I) thesis which relates to social media.
What is Social Media and the Law unit and why should students enrol?
LAW366 and LLM566 covers a variety of aspects relating to Social Media Law. We cover defamation, copyright, and the impact of social media in various contexts such as employment and criminal law. We also talk about creating a positive digital profile and how to market oneself in a professional capacity. Given the prominence of social media in our society today, this unit will be relevant to people’s professional and personal life. It will also be heaps of fun!
What do you do as Unit Coordinator?
My role as Unit Coordinator means I oversee every aspect of the unit. I have written and designed all the content of the unit. I will also be completing all of the teaching, which means I will get to know all enrolled students well. am organising an Intensive School for this unit, so we can come together - if possible - and focus on the unit’s content, whilst also building valuable friendships and networks.
What excites you about this unit?
Everything about this unit excites me! It signifies the culmination of a decades worth of work for me. It allows us to focus on people’s stories and the pickles people can get themselves into whilst using social media. It also lets us talk about the ‘big stuff.’ Think privacy, the democratisation of media and the whole nature of social media- including mental health considerations. It is a seriously fascinating unit!
Past student evaluation
When waiting with anticipation and high expectations there is a high chance of disappointment. I had waited for more than a year for this unit; I had no such disappointment. It was everything and more and I strongly believe the University should give some serious thought to ‘Social Media and the Law’ becoming a core unit.
What is one piece of career advice you might offer students?
Remember to be kind and considerate in your professional lives. Compassion, empathy and humility are so much more important than academic brilliance in my opinion!
What do you like to do for fun?
I love spending time with my family and friends more than anything else. I love exercise, especially the positive benefits it has on my mental health, and I attend dancing classes and do gym training - sadly I still don’t look like a super model though! I also love gardening, and growing my own produce. I adore holidays - especially going to the beach. I am also in a book club, which is great fun as it makes me read books I wouldn’t have usually chosen.
