ECX3890 · Internet business and digital economy

Overview

The rapid developments of the internet, mobile, and related technologies provide not only new business models and lifestyles but also an exciting area for economic analysis. How do start-ups transform a new idea into an online business and build a consumer base? How does selling online advertising space create enormous profits for Facebook and Google? Why do we still see significant differences across sellers for the same product although the internet has made it easier than ever to compare prices? How do social networks affect content creation and sharing on social media platforms? Policymakers around the world are concerned with the potential misuse of market power by large digital platforms. The unit provides you with an understanding of the current debates regarding consumer privacy, online advertising, and biased social media and the role of economics in informing the future development of the internet.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. understand the essential features and purpose of a variety of online business models
2. identify and analyse major competition issues that arise in digital markets
3. understand and explain the strategies used in a range of digital business situations
4. recommend sound policies that can address concerns regarding market power of giant digital platforms

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.