Online Classroom Copyright Requirements
Virtual instruction includes digitally transmitting class materials to students. This transmission is authorized under the TEACH (Technology Education and Copyright Harmonization) Act which is a part of the copyright law. One of the major requirements of the law is that materials can only be digitally transmitted to students officially registered in the course. There are other requirements for teaching, technology, and course materials that instructors must meet as well before using the TEACH exception. If all the requirements are not met, then apply the fair use exception.
Instructors
Technology
Many course management systems include most of the technological protections that are necessary to comply with the TEACH Act. However, it is the instructor's responsibility to ensure that the following requirements are met:
Course Materials
Example: Images such as photographs and slides
Example: Recommended readings.
Other Requirements for Materials
The University Copyright Office was established in 2000 to advise Purdue University faculty and staff on the application of copyright law in a higher education setting and to provide information on current copyright issues. The Office also provides programs to promote compliance and awareness. It is the responsibility of all members of the Purdue University community to make a good faith determination that their use of copyrighted materials complies with the United States Copyright Law and the Purdue University Copyright Policy.
For further information about copyright or to set up an appointment, please contact the office at 765.496.3864 or Donna Ferullo, Director, at ferullo@purdue.edu. The Office is located in Stewart Center, Room 264A.