Copyright laws are a fair set rules protecting the creators of music and literature by giving them the sole credit and compensation of their work. The specifics of these laws are laid out in detail, but most of us do not research these laws in our spare time. However, taking a look at these laws can be hair raising for the educator who busily lives in the world of 'copy' and 'paste' and copy and staple.
One of the articles I read was especially enlightening in regards to the "Fair Use Law"--the one copyright law that we as teachers have leaned upon as our means to wiggle around the multitudinous others. While this law allows teachers the grace of using copyrighted materials without permission in an educational setting, it does not permit stealing. Over-copying is one source of violating this law. Ask yourself this question, "Is the amount copied a fair portion, or does it take away potential market for and/or compensation of the copyrighted work?"
Unsure if you are abiding by the laws? Get knowleadgeable about the types of work you typically copy (especially in quantity and high frequency). Gain wisdom on the laws first and the portion of usage that is legal. Still unsure? Ask for permission from the owner of the material.
Quick Fix Wisdom on Copyright Laws:
I found a very helpful website in class this week called Copyright and Schools. I recommend this user friendly site as a quick way to find information on a specific use of a work. Visit them at http://www.copyrightandschools.org/#
Learn and Get Credit Wisdom:
Upper Columbia Conference is advertising a free 5-hour course on the legal responsibilities of church and school leaders. Participants will receive a training certificate and 0.5 CEU credits. Sign-up at https://l.uccsda.
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