What you, as a teacher, should know

 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.

 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!

 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: Commentary Parody News reporting Scholarly Research Education

 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).

 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

 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)

 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.

 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.

Use it to engage students in meaningful learning