Can I make copies of articles and distribute them in class?
Yes. Distribution of multiple copies for classroom use is fair use. However, the repeated use of a copyrighted work, from term-to-term, requires more scrutiny in a fair use evaluation. Repeated use, as well as a large class size, may weigh against fair use.
Can I upload an article to my Moodle course?
Yes. However, keep in mind that course management systems do not exempt an instructor from copyright rules. Here are some guidelines, in order of preference, for posting a resource to your class:
How do I use permalinks?
If you copy the link for an article from the browser address bar, this link is temporary and will also not work for students when they are off-campus. Permalinks are stable links that will always take students to a specific full-text article. You may usually find a permalink in a database next to the article. They sometimes have a link icon. For more help with permalinks, Permalinks are sometimes referred to as persistent, stable, or document links.
Can I use images in my presentation?
The simple answer is you may use images if it's for a classroom or University presentation. (Here is a good overview on the topic.) Please track down the copyright holder to give credit. If you are sharing your presentation outside of the University, you will need to obtain copyright permission for images, use images from public domain or copyright-free collections, or use your own images.
Can I show a video to my class?
Yes. You may show all or part of a video (such as a documentary or motion picture) in a face-to-face class setting.
Can I use a rented video in class?
Yes, if they are lawfully made. RedBox or Netflix DVDs are also permissible.
Can I show a video from my personal streaming service, such as Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, etc?
Probably not. The user license will supersede any fair use provisions for a streamed video from a commercial subscription service.
EXCEPT: select documentaries produced by Netflix. Netflix permits a one-time educational screening of several of their original documentaries, such as 13TH. To see a comprehensive list of Netflix titles granting educational use, view this guide from the James E. Tobin Library.
Do I need public performance rights to show a video in class?
No. Public performance rights are only necessary when a video is shown for a non-teaching activity. Campus clubs and social events must have permission or public performance rights for any event that is open to the public.
Can I use YouTube videos in my class?
Yes. It is permitted to use YouTube-provided embed codes to embed videos in your course.
But do not use YouTube videos that contain infringing content.
If YouTube does not provide an embed code, you will have to link to the video.