Course Objectives

EL114 - Respecting Copyrights and Leveraging Available Resources

This course provides a basic overview of the background and history of the usage of copyrighted materials in U.S. education. Copyright usage is an often-misunderstood area of education. This course will help build an awareness of the U.S. Copyright Law and its various components. Instructors will be given practical examples on how to correctly use copyrighted materials in their classrooms. In the 21st century, many students do not recognize common concepts such as pirating of music and videos. Instructors are on the frontline in education and can educate newer generations on the ideas of fair use, intellectual property, and piracy issues.


Module 1: Definition & Importance of U.S. Copyright Law

  • Identify the historical background of the U.S. Copyright Law
  • Describe the impact of copyright law on education
  • Recognize the 5 major characteristics of U.S. Copyright Law
  • Reflect on the importance of copyright issues in the online environment
  • List the types of works protected by the law
  • Reflect on the limitations or obstacles within the U.S. Copyright Law

Module 2: Legality Issues

  • Reflect on national attitudes towards copyright issues
  • Recognize basic elements that can hinder the correct usage of copyright in education
  • List misconceptions that instructors might have concerning copyright in the classroom and online
  • Recognize examples of fair use, piracy, and intellectual property
  • Identify the most important sections of the U.S. Copyright Law and the TEACH Act
  • List major organizations which concentrate on educational copyright issues

Module 3: Digital Citizenship

  • Recognize the obstacles in maintaining copyright clearances
  • Identify major components that instructors must follow for compliance
  • Recognize the key elements differentiating between “works” and “fixed form” copyright conditions
  • List different categories of classroom resources available for instructors
  • Develop a personal plan for complying with copyright regulations
  • Identify institutional strategies for copyright compliance

Module 4: Incorporating Copyrighted Educational Materials

  • Identify models of good copyright practices and behavior
  • Recognize the benefits of media resources in 21st century education
  • Develop a self-leadership plan for incorporating copyrighted materials
  • Reflect on the availability of copyright resources
  • Identify the different copyright guidelines affecting non-profit and for profit institutions
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