In the recently released Public Statement of Library Copyright Specialists: Fair Use & Emergency Remote Teaching & Research the application of Fair Use is encouraged for meeting the immediate needs of students who are suddenly working in a remote or online environment. Sharing materials on Canvas is recommended over a personal website. Contact us for any questions or additional information.
Copyright is a form of intellectual property law that secures authors or creators certain exclusive rights over their works for a limited period of time. Works can include writings, both fiction and nonfiction, illustrative works, video and audio content.
Using copyright-protected works in instruction can be a necessary support to learning. Certain limitations on copyright such as Classroom Performance or Display, the TEACH Act or the Fair Use doctrine, allow instructors to use protected works without the permission of the rights holder. These limitations as well as any university policies should be taken into consideration by instructors or teaching faculty.
Our library guide on copyright provides additional information on copyright limitations, policies and library services that support instructional needs, such as course reserve.
Video presentations concerning copyright are available through the library’s tutorials page.
Additional Resources
- The TEACH Act from Copyright Crash Course
A clear overview of the TEACH Act for distance education and its exceptions. Includes a useful checklist for applying the act.
University of Texas Libraries - Specific Uses: Teaching from Copyright Information & Resources
Addresses many of the FAQs surrounding the use of copyrighted materials in instruction.
University of Minnesota Libraries