What is user generated content in Glow?
User generated content is digitally produced content, in a range of file formats, which has been created by teachers or learners to support the curriculum. Such content can be shared by users using a range of tools and applications within the Glow platform: email, newsfeeds, OneDrive and SharePoint sites, etc.
User generated content that is shared on Glow is done so with the understanding that the original owner grants other users the right to download, use and adapt that material for their own teaching and learning needs.
What is Copyright?
Copyright is a form of legal protection for owners of certain types of works that allow them to control how these works can be used. The types of work protected by Copyright are:
Copyright and the Internet
Whilst digital information is freely available via the Internet making it easy to access, copy, modify and distribute digital materials. It does not mean you are automatically allowed to do so.
It is important to understand that, unless stated otherwise, the majority of digital materials will be subject to Copyright and is the property of the rights holder.
Whenever you are using material from the Internet, it is important to remember that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the majority of such resources is likely to be subject to Copyright restrictions and will be the property of the rights holder. Even if there is no Copyright statement on the materials you are looking at, you must not assume that it is Copyright-free.
Using Images
The Internet is a great source for images that you may want to use. However, it should be assumed that these images are not Copyright free, unless it is clearly stated on the image or the Terms and Conditions of the site where the image is held.
Also, you may be required to purchase a licence to use the image legally. A number of websites provide free images that can be copied and re-used for non-commercial purposes, using the Creative Commons license.
Do’s
Don’ts
Using Internet Memes
Internet Memes, including animated GIFs are becoming vastly popular and can also be quite funny. However, unless you created the meme yourself using all your own original material, there is a risk that you are infringing the Copyright. Where possible, you should try and seek permission from the owner of the image or the meme.
Using Logos
Company logos are usually Copyrighted and may also be trademarked. Copying and/or using these logos in any way, without permission, is likely to infringe the company’s Copyright and Trademark rights.
Always seek permission from the company before using their logo.
Downloading Music
You should not download music from the Internet unless you are doing so from a legitimate site with licenced use. Your school may have a license that allows you to do this so check before you download.
Do not upload music to Glow unless you have a licence to do so.
Copyright Infringement
Users may not share content that is copyrighted, or material for which permission has not been granted by the original owner.
Copyright law protects rights of ownership in creative works. If your use of the material infringes Copyright, you are breaching Copyright law which could result in the Copyright owner taking legal action against you, your school and your Local Authority which could have serious consequences, including financial penalties.
Want to know more?
For further and more detailed guidance on Copyright and how Copyright material and resources can be used legally, please speak to your school teacher and/or school administrator.