Intellectual Property
As you develop content, you need to keep copyright laws in mind. Unless the content is in the public domain or you have permission to use it, you cannot just download and use someone's photo or animated image.
When adding content that you did NOT create yourself, make sure you have permission to use it..
Definition of Copyright
The United States government describes copyright as a form of protection "provided by the laws of the United States to the authors of 'original works of authorship,' including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works. This protection is available to both published and unpublished works."
Click on the link to view our Norfolk State University's Intellectual Property and Copyright Policy: NSU Intellectual Property and Copyright Policy
Copyrightable works you may be interested in using in an online course include:
Literary works, such as stories and articles
computer programs, images and graphics
and audio recordings. Copyright protection is automatic. No copyright statement or registration is required. Unless it is explicitly stated otherwise, you must assume the materials are protected. If you do register your work, it increases your rights.
Unique Styles
If you are unsure if you can legally use a piece of content in your course, you can contact the individual who created the content. Often, owners are willing to share their work provided they receive recognition.
arrow To request permission to use text or an image from a website:
Identify yourself and your role, and include your school's name.
Explain what you want to use and why, such as the educational use.
Describe exactly how you will use the item.
State the dates when you will use the item.
If you do receive permission, keep a hard copy in your files and add appropriate acknowledgment of permission on your page.
Be sure that anything you use in your courses is either produced by you or for you, or is used with the proper permissions. If you have legal questions, consult the copyright specialist at your school. Click on the link below to view an example of a tutorial guide about using copyrighted media developed by Baruch College's Computing and Technology Center- Copyrighted media tutorial.