Internet Technology and Policy online course
Internet infrastructure and critical internet resources are no longer dry tech-geek topics.
They have drawn the attention of the wider internet community through discussions on internet names and numbers (domain names such as .amazon, .wine), the internet of things (self-driving cars, drones affecting air traffic safety) and other current issues.
This course focuses on technology and core infrastructure issues within the context of public policy.
What will you learn?
- To analyse and discuss the interplay between underlying internet and digital technology concepts, core values and principles, and related internet policy issues.
- How to explain in simple ways how the internet works by following the journey of internet packets.
- To make a distinction between the different layers of the internet and the policy issues associated with each of these layers.
- To define and explain the overarching telecom/internet infrastructure issues, including wired and wireless infrastructure, internet protocols, and issues that account for infrastructure development.
- How to explain the function of internet protocols, the reasons why upgrading to IPv6 is necessary, and the opportunities and challenges that accompany the new version.
- How to explain the role of the DNS, the distinction between various types of top-level domains (TLDs), and the role played by ICANN.
- How to explain the role of technical standards as a bridge between technology and policy.
- To discuss the interplay between the internet, AI and other emerging technologies.
Course lecturers
Director of Knowledge, Diplo
Executive Director, Diplo
Director of Cybersecurity and Diplomacy, Diplo
Who should apply
- Officials in government ministries, departments, judicial or regulatory institutions dealing with policy issues affected by the internet and digital technologies (e.g. security and defence, foreign affairs, justice, telecommunications)
- Technical experts and business people keen to learn more about digital policy
- Practising diplomats, civil servants, and others working in international relations who want to expand their knowledge on the subject
- Experts and officials in intergovernmental, international and regional organisations in charge of security cooperation, justice and home affairs, defence or internet and ICT policy
- Academics, researchers and postgraduate students in fields such as international relations, political sciences, diplomacy, and digital economy
- Journalists and staff of non-governmental organisations, covering issues such as cybersecurity and online rights and freedoms
Overview
The course consists of 4 modules:
- Telecommunications infrastructure and critical internet resources. Understanding the basis for core infrastructures fosters better policy shaping, leading to the development of policies and principles that are compatible with the underlying internet architecture. This module focuses on unpacking three key elements behind the internet as we know it today: telecom infrastructure, internet protocols, and domain names. We examine some of the primary policy issues associated with these internet resources.
- Applications and content. The applications layer is the interface where end-users directly engage with digital services, applications, and content. This dynamic layer encompasses a diverse range of applications, including web browsers, email clients, video streaming platforms, and mobile apps, and builds on the foundation of the infrastructure and transport layers. This module explores data and cloud computing, the internet of things (IoT), and content governance. It also briefly examines encryption technology within the framework of internet content.
- Technical standards. Standards describe rules, requirements, and guidelines for how technology, products, and services are developed and function. This module explores the role of standards across the spectrum of infrastructure, protocols, and applications, the organisations responsible for setting standards, and ongoing policy discussions involving standards.
- AI and other emerging technologies. This module explores several emerging and advanced technologies that are inextricably linked to the internet, including AI, virtual reality, and the quantum internet.
Also of interest
Introduction to Internet and Digital Governance online course
AI Technology, Policy and Governance online course
Cybersecurity Policy Foundations
Need more info:
DiploFoundation (attn Tanja Nikolic)
Anutruf, Ground Floor, Hriereb Street
Msida, MSD 1675, Malta
+356 21 333 323;[email protected]
Methodology
The course will last for a total of 5 weeks, structured as follows:
- 1 week split between the course introduction and the wrap-up
- 4 weeks dedicated to addressing the course topics individually
The course is based on a collaborative learning approach, involving a high level of interaction over a four-week period. This interaction takes place in two main forms:
- Asynchronous interaction, using a custom-developed commenting tool
- Synchronous interaction, through live class meetings held in real time
Each module is discussed over seven days, during which you are expected to actively engage in the exchange of ideas, examples, and experiences with fellow participants and lecturers from around the world. Some modules may also include additional online activities, such as quizzes and exercises. Weekly interaction concludes with a one-hour live class meeting, conducted via Zoom or as a text-based chat. These sessions provide an opportunity to discuss the week’s topic in real time with the lecturer and other participants.
To complete the course successfully, an average of 5 to 7 hours of study time per week is required. This includes both synchronous and asynchronous discussions, as well as any additional online activities. Throughout the course, you will also receive guidance and personalised feedback on your classwork from the course team.
Course materials and the necessary tools for online interaction and course tasks are provided in a virtual classroom.
Participants who successfully complete the course receive a certificate issued by Diplo Academy, which can be printed or shared electronically.
Prerequisites
- Regular internet access
- An undergraduate university degree, OR 3 years of work experience, and appropriate professional qualifications in diplomacy or international relations
- Sufficient English language proficiency to undertake postgraduate-level studies
Fees and scholarships
The fee for this course is €500.
- Diplo alumni are eligible for a 15% discount on the course fee.
- A limited number of partial scholarships are available for diplomats and professionals working in international relations from developing countries.
- Group discounts are available for multiple participants from the same institution.
Applicants are encouraged to actively explore scholarship funding from local or international institutions.
How to apply
Fill out the short form to start your application process for this course.
Applying for financial assistance? Please indicate this on the application form and upload your CV, along with a motivation statement that includes:
- Details of your relevant professional and educational background
- Your reasons for applying to the course
- Why you believe you should be offered the opportunity to participate, and how your participation would benefit you, your institution, and/or your country
Note: Financial assistance from Diplo is available only to applicants from developing countries! Late applications will be considered only if places are still available.
Cancellation policy
A minimum of 15 applications is required for the course to run.
Diplo Academy reserves the right to cancel the course if enrollment is insufficient. In the event of cancellation, Diplo will notify applicants shortly after the application deadline. Applicants who have paid an application fee may either transfer the fee to another course or request a refund.