Introduction to Law

Code:

CC029

Acronym:

IDIR

Instance: 2011/2012 - 1S

Active?	Yes
Responsible unit:	Department of Journalism and Communication Sciences
Course/CS Responsible:	Bachelor in Communication Sciences

Cycles of Study/Courses

Acronym	No. of Students	Study Plan	Curricular Years	Credits UCN	Credits ECTS	Contact hours	Total Time
CC	32	Plano Oficial a partir de 2008/2009	2	-	5	52	135

Teaching language

Portuguese

Objectives

This subject is designed to provide students of the Journalism and Communication Sciences course knowledge about the concepts and general notions of Law required for their future professional activities.

Students will be able to understand the legal terminology, the sources of law, the legal system, the rule of law and the legal relationship. But we also intend to provide basic and extensive knowledge about the legal framework (national, EU and international) underlying the law of communication, and familiarise students of Journalism and Communication Sciences courses with the rules of their legal system (CRP; laws of the press, radio and television) and of the European Radio Communications Committee (ERC).

Program

I – Introduction

II - Background and introduction to the study of law
II. 1. The legal relationship
II.2. The individuals - personality, legal capacity and capacity to exercise rights
II.3. Personality rights
II.4. Legal persons
II.5 Concept, elements and formation of legal business

III - The legal framework of publicity

IV - Fundamental principles of communication – freedom, pluralism, independence.
IV.1 The rules of Communication Law
1. In international law (Universal Declaration of Human Rights);
2. In EU law
3. In national law
at constitutional level
at legislative level

V – The legal regime of contents and communication
V.1 The press
V.2 The radio
V.3 The television

VI – The regulation of contents and communication
VI.1 - Statute and mission of the media regulatory authorities.

Teaching methods and learning activities

Programme contents will be taught in theory and practical lectures.

Expository theoretical and practical classes. Practical classes are intended to clarify and explain concepts introduced during the theory classes and for the presentation of practical cases or practices based on real situations. Tutorials aim at constantly supervising students, in particular with regard to assessment related work required of them.

Students will be motivated to interact and provide feedback on cases or situations presented, in both theory and practical classes.

Evaluation Type

Evaluation with final exam

Eligibility for exams

To be eligible for exams, students must attend 75% of all course hours.

Calculation formula of final grade

Continuous assessment - 100%
or final exam - 100%

Examinations or Special Assignments

Not applicable.

Special assessment (TE, DA, ...)

Not applicable.

Classification improvement

In accordance with the Assessment Regulations in force.