Overview
This is a module and counts as 0.25 FCE.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this module students will be able to:
- Appreciate the ubiquity of IP.
- Gain a basic understanding of various agreement terms.
- Refine negotiation skills.
- Appreciate the key concepts, terms, and vehicles of commercialization/translation.
Description
This module moves beyond a discussion of basic intellectual property (IP) concepts and provides students with an opportunity to explore the implications of IP development and ownership, both generally and as specifically related to their careers. We will examine the content and key terms of a variety of agreements that impact IP rights including licensing, employment, consulting, and non-disclosure agreements, as well as IP terms of government calls for proposals (i.e. RFPs). Students will also have an opportunity to become conversant in basic ethical issues of IP through an examination of the potential abuses of IP rights, such as anti-competitive behaviour, barriers to IP access, IP non-use, and patent trolling. The module concludes with an overview of business structures, and an introduction to corporate concepts such as shares, share vesting, and financing. Throughout the module, students will have an opportunity to read and discuss recent case law and apply the material through negotiation exercises.