I ran into some copyright conundrums in the course of preparing for NTI, particularly regarding distribution of (out-of-print) materials. The problem is that copyright law is complex, and while individuals, libraries, and academic institutions are protected by “fair use,” it is not always clear what situations it covers (and the most efficient way to find out is to get yourself sued).
A group of researchers and educators have published this proposal on how institutions can properly use copyrighted material for educational purposes. It’s long, and often controversial, but may be worth it to those thinking through these issues.
Ars Technica has a nice summary:
In general, the document advises that faculty has broad abilities to use copyrighted material in educational materials, “including books, workbooks, podcasts, DVD compilations, videos, Web sites, and other materials designed for learning.” But it goes beyond what might be expected, as it argues that curriculum materials that incorporate copyrighted works can be sold, provided that accomplishes an educational purpose. Students are given broad leeway for the use of copyrighted works in assignments but, provided their work is sufficiently transformative, the guidelines argue that they should also be able to perform or distribute their assignments in any context, including online.
No related posts.
There’s a great piece by Dr. Vern Poythress on what copyright laws should look like: Why the Laws Should Be Changed. He takes a biblical view against the typical pragmatic arguments. Of course, those pragmatic arguments got a lot harder to make with a straight face after the latest extension.
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