COPYRIGHT

What you, as a teacher, should know

WHAT IS COPYRIGHT? The rights (protection) granted to an

author for creating an original piece of work.

The author has the right to copy or distribute their work.No one else has an automatic right to do so

without permission.

IN THE CASE THAT SOMEONE USES SOMEONE ELSE’S WORK (COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT):

That person can be sued for damages. The copyright holder is entitled to

compensation for loss, such as profits anywhere from $250 - $150,000.

Can also be criminally liable if work was copied for profit or commercial gain (+1 year of jail and fines).

The Copyright Act protects the authors of original works!

THERE ARE WAYS (FAIR USE) As a teacher, a lot of what is copied can

be used without fear of being sued for infringement.

This is done through Fair Use. Some things do not require permission from

the copyright holder. Examples of this is when the work is used for:

CommentaryParodyNews reportingScholarly ResearchEducation

CONDITIONS FOR FAIR USE Things to take into consideration:

The purpose and character of the use (can not be used for business or personal gain).

The nature of the copyright.Amount and substantiality (length).Effect on the market (If there is loss to the

holder).

IF YOU WANT TO USE A VIDEO IN THE CLASSROOM: Rented or purchased movies may be

played. Taping something off the TV for classroom

use is allowed as long as: It is for teaching purposes There is limited use (time) Only use programs broadcast to the general

public (no cable programs) Generally more acceptable to ask the school to

tape it Only show video within ten days from the day

recorded Tape may not be edited

TO USE COPYRIGHT MATERIAL When using someone else’s words:

Make sure to quote (“”) Keep it short and simple

Check for length You can also summarize Give credit to the original author Do not use as one’s own

When using someone else’s musical score: It is allowed for research or study Reasonable portion (length) Consider factors of fair use Also remember to acknowledge the source If downloading music, make sure to do so from a

legitimate site (otherwise it is illegal)

ONLINE When getting stuff from an internet

website:Check for:

The date the work was first published If the work is a work made for hire The owner’s intent on dedicating the work to the

public domain (or not)

Keep in mind that Copyright for websites is automatic even if the copyright symbol is not present.

TO BE ON THE SAFE SIDE: ASK PERMISSION!!

If you are not sure what you can and can not use, get help.You can go to the Copyright Clearance

Center and get permission. If it is public domain (the copyright is

expired), there is no need to ask for permission.

NOW THAT YOU KNOW MORE ABOUT COPYRIGHT

Use it to engage students in meaningful learning