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Copyright

Just because it is on the Internet doesn't mean it is free to use.

Copyright in Learning Management Systems

Brightspace is subject to copyright regulations. Even though it’s password-protected, uploading copyrighted material still counts as a public distribution under U.S. copyright law.

Things to Consider When Using Materials

Methods that are safe in Brightspace:

  • Linking to content from library databases, websites, or streaming services with permalinks
  • Uploading original materials you created, such as slides, videos, or handouts
  • Embedding or linking to licensed OERs with Creative Commons or open licenses
  • Using short quotes or small portions under Fair Use (with citation)

Methods that raise copyright concerns:

  • Uploading full chapters, articles, or videos without permission or licensing
  • Reusing the same copyrighted PDF each semester
  • Copying materials from other instructors without checking their rights or sources

When using PDFs in a Learning Management System ask:

  •  Is it a small excerpt or the entire work?
  • Can you link to a licensed version instead of uploading?
  • Have you used the same PDF repeatedly across semesters?

Safer methods to use material:

  • Link to content from a library database, publisher, or open website
  • Use an e-book, streaming video, or article already licensed by the Library
  • Choose openly licensed content like OERs or Creative Commons materials
  • Post a citation only and let students access the material through the Library or another legal source
  • Provide a written notice on the copies or on the syllabus prohibiting further distribution, for example:“This material is subject to the copyright law of the United States (Title 17 U.S. Code) and is for use of students in English 101 only. Further reproduction or distribution is prohibited.”

Why Use Permalinks?

Open web links may change or hide content behind a paywall. Getting around this with a PDF leads to more challenges.

PDF versions of copyrighted content, such as a journal article, may only be used in a Learning Management System such as Brightspace for two consecutive semesters per US Copyright law. Avoid this time restriction by providing a permalink to the article from a Library database.

Content found in our Library databases may be used indefinitely thanks to our subscription model.