CopyRIGHT So You Don't CopyWRONG

The use of technology is rapidly increasing each year.  Long gone are the days of projector screens, textbook-exclusive learning, and chalkboard lessons; and are instead replaced by SmartBoards, YouTube videos, and iPads in the classroom.  Educators are now expecting students to use their instinctive and creative knowledge to enhance classroom presentations by requiring an online component.  However, while this upsurge in technology can benefit the current generation of students, many things such as copyright policies can become disastrous if not taught properly.

McNee, L. (2015). Copyright symbol. [Online Image]. Retrieved from http://www.finearttips.com/2011/02/tips-to-best-copyright-protect-your-artwork/

A copyright is a legal right of ownership which allows the creator to control how their piece of work is used.  A copyright can be in the form of a painting, a photograph, a poem, a novel, or many other things.  Essentially, copyright is a form of protection given to the authors or creators and allow you to have the right to do any of the following:

1. Make copies of your work
2. Distribute copies of your work
3. Perform your work publicly 
4. Display your work publicly 
5. Make "derivative works" (a work based upon pre-existing work)

Therefore, it is illegal for anyone to do any of the things listed above without the permission of the creator/author.  It is essential for students to recognize the importance of copyrighting, to ensure that respect and appreciation is given to those who first created the information used.  

Here is a great video which goes into more depth on copyright, and more specifically, copyright infringement:

YouTube Spotlight (2011, March 24). YouTube Copyright School. [Video]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InzDjH1-9Ns

Through completing this module, I have recognized the importance of copyrighting, and will ensure that I teach this lesson to my future students.  The most important lesson I would teach my students when discussing issues around copyright is the reason for why we give credit.  Individuals who have created the piece of work have worked extensively in order to provide others with the ability to use said piece of work.  It is only fair that out of respect for their hard work, learners show their appreciation by appropriately citing the work they have used.  

With the knowledge I have gained, I can now successfully recognize what a copyright is, what the license entails, and how to adquately teach it to my future students!