Sharing and Copyright concerns
Instructor and learning institutions have to be aware of copyright laws and the sharing of material.
It is very important of be abreast of copyright infringement. Whenever I use someone else's work, I always make sure that I credit the source as accurately as possible.
Marietta Carter-Narcisse
Where I teach there are so many oppertunities to violate copyright rules that we have companywide policies in place that cover things from music in the classroom to video downloads. I am thankful for the policies so we don't wind up geting in hot water.
John,
Having the institutions copyright policy posted in break rooms and near every photocopier is a great way to keep potential violations at bay.
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Theresa Schmitt
That is a great policy to follow. Also, i have my students to submit work to tunitin.com
That is an excellent idea. It is the perfect in-your-face reminder. Plus, if someone is unsure or unaware of copyright violations, the information would be handy right by the copy machine.
We are basiclly only able to use certain videos. Perhaps this concern is why. However, the "
Terms of Use" can be utilized.
Gayle,
Many for-profit institutions have this restriction and it can make lesson planning challenging at times. Many campuses subscribe to Swank (http://www.swank.com/). Educators can search for approved content on the website and submit a list of titles to the campus librarian/media specialist to ensure the necessary fees are paid.
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Theresa Schmitt
Since I now teach at a for-profit institution, I find that much more restrictive than in my former employment at public and not-for-profit institutions. I certainly don't want to burn my employer, so have to be scrupulous about this.
Unfortunately, it is difficult for instuctors to make engaging lesson plans and activities, and be up to date on copyright issues. I am not sure that I have been fully aware of the constraints. Thank you for helping me understand and providing me with the resources to be more proactive in the materials I select.
I very much agree. Even though an instructors intentions may be completely honest and pure, he/she may be treading on thin ice when it comes to the sharing of copyrighted materials. Especially in a for-profit educational environment.
This website can be useful in checking for the appropriate use of material that will enhance a classroom presentation.
Crediting the source may not be sufficient if the institution does not qualify for the fair use exception. With a constant stream of adjuncts (I am an adjunct and an attorney) this poses a tremendous concern as often they teach in multiple schools with different status classifications. In addition, training is often lacking on these matters. School librarians can be the single best resources for addressing these concerns and should be very proactive in reaching out continuously with reminders and updates on such matters.
