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Copyright Fundamentals

Welcome

The purpose of this guide is to support the MC community in using copyrighted materials responsibly. The side tabs guide through the various aspects of copyright including, but not limited to: 

  • Understanding copyright
  • Copyright in the classroom
  • Fair Use 
  • Creative Commons
  • Public Domain 

Copyright can feel overwhelming and complex. It is important for students, faculty, and staff to understand the basics because copyright  is intertwined with many activities in an academic environment. This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions when using, creating, and sharing information with others. 

Please note that this guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as legal advice.

What is Copyright?

Copyright encourages creativity and scholarship by protecting a creator's right to prevent unauthorized use of their work.

All works created in tangible form, in the United States, are automatically copyrighted. 

Even if a work is unpublished and does not contain a notice of copyright ©, it is still protected under copyright law. There are some

exceptions and limitations, such as Fair Use and works in the public domain.  

A red pin surrounded by a box with the copyright symbol.

 

What is protected by copyrighted? 

  • Literary works
  • Musical works
  • Artistic works                                                           
  • Dramatic works
  • Film and more 

What is not protected by copyrighted? 

  • Ideas
  • Facts 
  • Government works 
  • Instructions and processes 

An infographic titled Understanding Copyright.

Copyright on Campus Video by Copyright Clearance Center

copyright on campus video

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