Activity #6 Case Study:

1.     Introduction of the problem- What happened regarding fair use in education in this scenario?

In this scenario, a classroom project was given to create a virtual zoo.  Students used the Flickr website to get photos and use them in building their online zoo.  The students researched copyright laws and discussed the fair use policy with their instructors.  The problem arises when an e-mail is received by one of the instructors (from an author of a picture used) regarding the use of the photograph in the virtual zoo.  The author feels it is “stealing” because the student took their pictures and used them without their permission.

2.     Analysis of the response- Was the Technology Integration Mentor correct in her response to the email the school received?  Provide evidence from your reading this week.  

I believe the Technology Integration Mentor was correct in her response to the email.  In the article regarding copyright, it deemed fair use in effect when it is being use for non-profit educational purposes.  The class was citing all images back to the original author and did increase the value of the image by putting it on their virtual zoo website.  The teacher was also correct that while the author has “some” rights to the photo it was on Flickr which allows her students to access it.

3.     Your response- What would you have done if you were the adult in charge in this situation?  You can piggy back on the Technology Integration Mentor's response or compose a completely new one.  Use evidence from your reading this week (other readings from previous weeks may also help).

I would do nearly exactly what the Technology Integration Mentor did in the video.  She explained why her students were NOT stealing the work, and they gave the photographer full credit for producing it.  The students reflecting on the project was also a key component to help them understand the copyright infringement and fair use policy.  I know the principal was copied into the e-mail, but I would also copy in the superintendent so they are aware of the situation.  While my response to the photographer would be similar to the Technology Integration Mentor’s, there is one thing I would add.  After reading the article regarding “bad manners” in fair use, I would apologize to the photographer for not first getting their permission.  I would explain that my students can legally use the image, but they should have asked, in order to make the author aware of the images being used.  This situation shows, you never know who you will offend by using their work, so asking permission first is a great way to avoid any conflict.