Copyright and Fair Use Policies
Information for K-12 Teachers
General Information
Many copyrighted materials can be used in education because of fair use policies. However, some restrictions are still important to keep in mind.
Do not post copyrighted materials online.
Keep fair use guidelines in mind when considering using copyrighted materials.
What qualifies for fair use?
Four Guidelines:
1. Purpose and Character
- should be used for nonprofit or educational purposes
- should not be used for entertainment or commercially
2. Nature
- should be more factual information
- creative or unique work is more protected
3. Amount and Sustainability
- borrow as little material as possible
- only use what is necessary
4. Potential Market
- the smaller the value of the material, the safer
- if there is a license to sell the material, it is more likely to be protected
Creative Commons Symbols and Their Meanings
Copyright
Use is protected/restricted.
Public Domain
Free to use with no restrictions.
Share Alike
The original license agreement must be used with any copies.
No Derivatives
Material is free but cannot be changed.
Non-Commercial
Material is free for non-commercial use only. (non-profit)
Attribution
Material is free to use if credit is given to owner.