The Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization Act (TEACH) legislation passed in 2002 to update copyright law for the digital realm and is a form of copyright law which provides educators to copy documents or use copyrighted materials in a classroom setting. It also plays an important role in distance education and permits students and teachers of institutions to use the copyrighted materials as part of their coursework. The Act facilitates teachers and students in accessing copyrighted materials, plus the use of a wider range of works in distance learning environments.
Ask Yourself
~ Is the work copyrighted? If not, no further analysis is needed. If yes or if you don’t know, see: Copyright.gov FAQs.
~ What is the setting for the class where I want to display or hand out a copy of the work—is it in a face-to-face classroom or in an online course?
The law allows different uses in different settings.
~ Is the work covered by a license, such as those governing my library’s electronic journals and databases? If so, contact your librarian.
~ Is there a specific provision in the copyright law that supports my proposed use without seeking prior permission from the copyright holder?
~ Does the fair use provision of the copyright law justify my proposed use?
~ Do I need permission from the copyright holder for the use I propose? If so, seek it: Campus Guide to Copyright Compliance: Obtaining Permission
