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How Local Schools Navigate Fair Use

Detailed Guidance on Applying Fair Use in Tippecanoe County Schools

Step-by-Step Application of Fair Use

1. Identify the Purpose of Use
   • Educational Intent: Ensure the primary purpose is for teaching, scholarship, or research.
   • Non-Commercial Use: Uses that do not seek profit are more likely to be considered fair use.

Example: A history teacher uses excerpts from historical speeches to discuss significant events. The educational purpose aligns with fair use guidelines.

Quote: “Understanding the intent behind using these materials is crucial. It’s all about enhancing the educational experience,” said Ms. Sarah Wilson, History Teacher at Lafayette High School.

2. Assess the Nature of the Work
   • Factual vs. Creative: Using factual or informational content is more likely to be fair use than using highly creative works like novels or movies.
   • Published vs. Unpublished: Published works are more likely to be considered fair use than unpublished works.

Example: A science teacher uses charts and data from published scientific studies to explain concepts in class.

Quote: “Factual content, especially from published studies, is a goldmine for educational purposes,” said Mr. John Andrews, Science Teacher at West Lafayette Middle School.

3. Determine the Amount and Substantiality of the Portion Used
   • Small Portions: Use only the amount necessary for the educational purpose. Avoid using the “heart” or most significant part of the work.
   • Portion Size: Using small excerpts or clips is more likely to be considered fair use.

Example: An art teacher shows a few images from an art history book to illustrate different styles and techniques.

Quote: “Using small, relevant excerpts makes it easier to stay within fair use guidelines while still providing valuable content,” said Ms. Emily Thompson, Art Teacher at Happy Days Preschool.

4. Evaluate the Effect on Market Value
   • Market Impact: Ensure that the use does not significantly impact the market value of the original work. If the use could replace the original work, it is less likely to be considered fair use.
   • No Commercial Use: Avoid uses that could lead to commercial gain at the expense of the copyright owner.

Example: A music teacher uses short clips of various songs to teach different musical genres. The clips are not used in a way that substitutes for the original songs.

Quote: “It’s important to consider whether the use affects the market value. Educational uses that don’t substitute for the original work are generally safe,” said Mr. David Lee, Music Teacher at Tippecanoe Elementary.

Practical Tips for Teachers

Tip 1: Always Attribute Sources

• Give Credit: Even when using materials under fair use, always attribute the original source. This maintains academic integrity and respects the original creator’s rights.

Example: An English teacher attributes the author and title of a poem used for literary analysis in class.

Quote: “Attributing sources not only respects the original creators but also teaches students the importance of academic honesty,” said Ms. Lisa Robinson, English Teacher at Jefferson Middle School.

Tip 2: Use Licensed Resources When Possible

• Educational Licenses: Many publishers offer resources specifically licensed for educational use. Utilizing these can simplify compliance with copyright laws.

Example: A social studies teacher uses a licensed database of historical documents for classroom activities.

Quote: “Licensed educational resources provide peace of mind and are often designed to be easily integrated into lessons,” said Mr. Michael Brown, Social Studies Teacher at Pine Street Elementary.

Tip 3: Keep Usage Limited and Relevant

• Relevance: Only use portions of works that are directly relevant to the lesson objectives. Avoid using more than necessary to achieve educational goals.

Example: A biology teacher uses a diagram from a textbook to explain a specific process, rather than copying the entire chapter.

Quote: “Limiting the amount of material used to what’s necessary for the lesson helps stay within fair use while making the content more digestible for students,” said Ms. Rachel Green, Biology Teacher at Riverwood High School.

Local School Case Studies

Case Study 1: Fair Use in Digital Learning

Story: During remote learning, Ms. Jane Smith from Maple Grove Elementary used short video clips from educational websites to supplement her virtual lessons. She ensured the clips were brief and directly related to her lesson objectives.

Outcome: The use of short clips was considered fair use due to their educational purpose, limited duration, and minimal impact on the market value of the original videos. The clips helped keep students engaged during remote lessons.

Quote: “Using brief, relevant clips helps maintain student engagement and aligns with fair use practices,” said Ms. Jane Smith.

Contact Information:

• Teacher: Jane Smith
• Email: jsmith@maplegroveelem.edu
• Phone: (765) 901-2345
• School: Maple Grove Elementary, Lafayette, IN

Case Study 2: Integrating Multimedia in Classroom Projects

Story: At Sunshine Preschool, Ms. Anna Brown incorporated short music samples and images into student projects to enhance learning experiences. She carefully selected portions that were educational and attributed all sources.

Outcome: The use of multimedia elements was deemed fair use as they were for educational purposes, involved only small portions, and did not impact the market value of the original works. Students enjoyed creating rich, multimedia projects.

Quote: “Multimedia elements make learning more dynamic and engaging, all while adhering to fair use principles,” said Ms. Anna Brown.

Contact Information:

• Teacher: Anna Brown
• Email: abrown@sunshinepreschool.edu
• Phone: (765) 678-9012
• School: Sunshine Preschool, West Lafayette, IN