One thing that gets really dicey in the online space is copyright.

It is super easy to copy & paste things: Graphics, articles, video clips. It is important that you understand your responsibility as an instructor regarding copyright.

Copyright: It's the law. Copying is stealing—even online.

5 Step Approach

Step 1
Is it copyrighted?

Created prior to 1923? - Public domain
Doesn't have to be registered anywhere, just a fixed, tangible form

Step 2
Is this item covered by a license?

Electronic journals
Databases
Creative Commons
Other contracted use

Step 3
Provision in Copyright Law

Teach Act requires faculty to:

Limit access to the materials to enrolled students only
Prevent ability for students to create or download copies
Include a copyright notice on the work
Use material in required course material of assignment

TEACH Act

Step 4
Fair Use?

Four factors:

The purpose and character of your use
The nature of the copyrighted work
The amount and sustainability f the portion taken
The effect on the use upon the potential maker

Fair Use Analysis Worksheet

Step 5
Do I need permission?

If not 100 % sure, ask permission.