U.S. Copyright: The Very Abridged Version for Online Educators

Abstract

Abstract The last decade has seen many educators transition from face-to-face classrooms to distance and online learning environments. Teaching in an online environment presents new copyright-related challenges for those creating educational content. The ease with which copyrighted material can be duplicated and distributed makes this domain more complex. This module was created by medical librarians to address copyright issues in an online environment and educate teaching faculty on copyright to minimize the risk of infringement. The module was created using the LAMS (Learning Activity Management System) software. LAMS modules are web-based interactive educational modules that support functions such as optional sections, quizzes, and embedded audiovisual material. This resource requires Internet access. The LAMS program guides users through the module in a step-by-step fashion. Some sections can be skipped if the user is confident that he or she already has a good grasp of the topic. The module takes approximately 20–25 minutes to complete. The module does not address the finer details of copyright. Copyright and intellectual property law is a complex and evolving field. Therefore, the module does not provide legal advice. Instead it aims to help educators recognize when a copyright issue requires advice from their local copyright expert.

Keywords

• Licensure
• Copyright Law
• Fair Use
• Public Domain
• Creative Commons
• Permissions