CM2045 Professional Practice for Computer Scientists Coursework Brief 2026 | University of London

CM2045 Coursework Brief

This coursework requires you to conduct a detailed case study analysis of the legal case National Association of the Deaf, et al. v. Netflix (2011-2012). This case was a turning point in web accessibility, focusing on the provision of closed captions on streaming content and the application of disability law to online businesses.

You will analyse the case background, legal arguments, accessibility concerns, court decision, and broader implications for the technology industry. Your work must be presented in two deliverables:

1. A written report [35 marks] providing an in-depth case study analysis.

2. A recorded presentation [15 marks] summarising key findings concisely.

This assignment assesses your ability to:

• Conduct rigorous research using diverse, credible sources. The focus could be on technical standards such as those provided by The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), press releases from both parties, legal documents, web articles, quotes from either parties and/or their representatives as well as a range of other literature and media sources that you consider appropriate for eliciting the key points and presenting a coherent, informative research report. The Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund provide an introduction and timeline for the case history as a starting point for your research https://dredf.org/nad-v-netflix/
• Analyse legal, ethical, and technological aspects of accessibility.
• Communicate findings clearly and professionally in both written and spoken
• Use visual elements effectively to enhance analysis.
• Synthesise information and propose insightful recommendations.

Assignment Deliverables & Marking Breakdown

1. Written Case Study Analysis [35 marks total]

Your formal report (2,000–2,500 words) should be structured as follows:

Expectations for the Written Report:

• Your analysis should be well-structured, clearly written, and professional.
• Use a consistent and academically appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, Harvard, or IEEE).
• Research should draw from credible sources, including legal documents, news reports, advocacy group statements, and any other source of information deemed appropriate and relevant. You may also rely on expert opinions, interpretations and consensus around the legal milestones of this case.
• Critical engagement with the material is expected—avoid simple summaries. Instead, analyse and evaluate the arguments and implications.
• Visual elements must be well-integrated and genuinely enhance the report, not serve as filler content.

2. Presentation [15 marks total]

You will create a 5–7-minute recorded presentation summarising your case study analysis of the key points mentioned in your report. AI including generative AI tools and LLMs should not be used to form any part of this coursework. The presentation should be recorded using screen recording software (e.g., PowerPoint with narration, Loom, OBS Studio) and should include visually engaging slides to support your key points.

Expectations for the Presentation:

• Your slides should be professionally designed, uncluttered, and support—not replace—your spoken delivery.
• Your narration should be clear, confident, and engaging, avoiding monotone delivery or excessive hesitations.
• The presentation should flow logically, emphasising key legal, ethical, and technological aspects while keeping within the time limit.
• Avoid reading directly from your slides—use them as visual prompts to reinforce key ideas.

Submission Requirements

• Written Report: Submit as a PDF or Word document.
• Presentation: Submit as a video file (MP4).
• File Naming Convention :pdf and CM2045_SRN_Presentation.mp4.

Assessment Criteria

Your final grade will be based on both deliverables, weighted as follows:

• Written Case Study Analysis: 35 marks
• Presentation: 15 marks

Total available on this coursework: 50 marks

Both the written report and the presentation must demonstrate strong research, critical thinking, and professional communication skills.

Final Notes

This coursework brief outlines the core expectations for your work. Use it as a guideline while allowing room for your own analytical voice and interpretation. If you have any questions about the assignment, seek clarification well before the deadline.

[End of coursework]