Presentation
This group of researchers is engaged in a research project on mapping consumer information seeking behavior, using consumer rights in mobile communications as a case study. The intervention is based on preliminary findings of a mystery shopper research study which gathered what information mobile telecommunications consumers are given at the point of sale in a retail outlet.
The mystery shopper research study found significant unavailability of information regarding consumer rights in the Code at the prepurchase stage, which contribute to the consumers’ unawareness of the Code. In particular, information regarding contract terms, unlocking the device, security deposits, and trial periods. Based on those preliminary findings, the authors recommend that CRTC develops a more robust plan for raising consumer awareness of the Code.
About the authors
Dr Mary Cavanagh is an Associate Professor and Acting Director of the School of Information Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Ottawa. She is a co-principal investigator of the project “Mapping the Front End: Legal Information Seeking Practices,” which is funded by the Law Foundation of Ontario Responsive Grants Program.
Marina Pavlović is an Assistant Professor at the Common Law Section, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa, where she is a member of the Center for Law, Technology and Society. She is a co-principal investigator of the project “Mapping the Front End: Legal Information Seeking Practices,” which is funded by the Law Foundation of Ontario Responsive Grants Program.
Sean Grassie is a second year student in the joint JD/MA program at the Common Law Section, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa and Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University. Sean holds a BA in Communications from Carleton University and is a Research Assistant with Professor Cavanagh’s and Professor Pavlovic’s project.
Lora Hamilton is a second year JD student at the Common Law Section, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa. She holds a Masters in Library and Information Studies from Dalhousie University. Lora is a Research Assistant with Professor Cavanagh’s and Professor Pavlovic’s project.