Copyright and E‐learning: A Guide for Practitioners

Citation

Milne, J. (2011), "Copyright and E‐learning: A Guide for Practitioners", Library Review, Vol. 60 No. 3, pp. 261-262. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531111117326

Copyright and E‐learning: A Guide for Practitioners is a first edition, published in 2010. The book, as stated by the author, “aims to provide practical advice about a variety of copyright issues for those working in the broad field of online learning”. Secker's professional copyright experience in relation to libraries, distance learning programmes, the use of social software and the role of emerging technologies in teaching and learning is reflected in this informative and succinct text.

The book does not address the more complex issues of copyright nor does it provide a detailed analysis of the current law. Rather, each of the book's six chapters contains a brief introduction to a specific topic with appropriate subheadings, at least one case study, a concise conclusion of the main points discussed and a list of references for further research. A “further resources” section is included at the end of the book with a glossary of abbreviations and a simple index.

Secker makes effective use of practical examples and case studies to emphasise good practice and low‐risk approaches to pertinent issues that may arise in an online learning environment. Whether the reader is concerned with digitising printed materials, using born digital works, multimedia or diving into the world of Web 2.0, the author provides step‐by‐step guidance on the general copyright challenges.

As well as, explaining in broad terms the law of copyright as it applies in the UK, there is a brief look at copyright laws in other countries including Australia, Canada and New Zealand with particular reference to the USA and the concept of “fair use”. Secker provides useful tips on how institutions (schools, colleges and universities) can avoid infringement by using more openly licensed materials such as open educational resources, works licensed under Creative Commons or open source software.

Use of blanket licences such as those supplied by the Copyright Licensing Agency or the Education Recording Agency are discussed and illustrated through relevant case studies. Lecture capture, podcasting and useful example sources for multimedia such as images, video and audio are also included.

Secker discusses copyright implications of using current and emerging technologies within learning, with a focus on popular sites like Flickr, YouTube, and social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Terms and conditions associated with web‐based content presented on some well‐known sites are reproduced and explained in simple and concise terminology. The re‐use of content from e‐books, subscription databases, teaching materials, as well as student‐owned content is also considered.

In the final chapter, the author focuses on managing copyright and online behaviour through copyright training. This contains guidance on selecting an appropriate trainer, deciding what the content of the programme should consist of, adopting a suitable style and model of delivery and means of supporting training through the provision of additional information. A UK case study aptly illustrates relevant issues and challenges associated with organising and setting this up within a university.

Secker states “copyright is often an issue that is overlooked, perhaps until it is too late”. The author clearly advocates an early and proactive policy approach to copyright in e‐learning, where ownership and conditions of use are carefully considered before adopting the use of online technologies, thus preventing potential infringement and liability.

To assist institutions embed best practice, sample IPR policies from various universities are listed in the “further resources” section. This section is well organised and easily searchable providing the reader with a wide variety of web sites, organisations and texts that offer further information and advice.

Secker's first edition succeeds in providing an introductory practical overview of copyright in e‐learning, particularly within higher education. Examples of how copyright is being managed within this context are copiously supported through practical case studies, helpful advice, simple tips and valuable sources of liberally licensed materials. The broad scope of the text and the popular topics covered are likely to be of interest to anyone working in online learning. Where decisions about risk or complex copyright issues are required, a definitive and comprehensive text may be more appropriate.