Copyright

Films can be powerful teaching tools and copyright law makes specific allowances for classroom use.

• ✅ You may show legally obtained films during in-person class sessions as part of instruction
• ✅ No public performance license is required when access is limited to enrolled students
• ✅ Films must support your course outcomes—not just be for entertainment

⚠️ Reminder: Captions are required for accessibility. Contact the library if your film is not captioned.

💡 Tip: Sharing your personal streaming accounts (like Netflix or Hulu) with a class is not allowed—even during in-person sessions.

Streaming a full-length film in an online class is not automatically permitted under copyright law—even if you own the DVD or have a personal streaming subscription.

🛡️ TEACH Act protections allow the use of reasonable and limited portions of films or videos in online instruction, provided certain conditions are met:

• ✅ The clip must directly relate to your course outcomes
• ✅ The clip must be from a legal copy
• ✅ The platform must restrict access to enrolled students (e.g., Canvas)

You can also explore licensed streaming options available through the NWACC Library:

💡 Tip: Make sure your video has captions. It's required for accessibility and supports all learners. For more on accessibility at NWACC, visit the Accessibility Compliance page. If you have a student with a disability accommodation, connect with the Disability Resource Center (DRC).

🎬 Posting videos in Canvas? Watch out for common mistakes that may violate copyright or accessibility policy.

• ⚠️ Uploading ripped DVDs or downloaded movies from unauthorized sources—even for teaching—can violate the law
• ⚠️ Linking to YouTube or TikTok videos is generally okay, but avoid downloading and reposting them
• ⚠️ Sharing subscription content (e.g., Netflix, Hulu) is not allowed—even if you personally have an account

💡 Tip: Need help finding licensed content? Ask the library before you upload.

🎭 Public Performance Rights (PPR) are required when you show a film outside of a face-to-face classroom setting—like at a club event, campus gathering, or conference.

• ✅ Classroom use: No PPR needed when using a legally acquired copy for in-person teaching (see Face-to-Face Teaching Exemption).
• ⚠️ Campus events: Even free screenings usually require PPR unless the work is in the public domain or has an open license.
• 🎥 Streaming databases: Most library-licensed films are cleared for class use, but not for public showings.

💡 Tip: If you're planning a film screening outside class, contact the Library to check PPR requirements.

If you're unsure whether you can stream, upload, or link to a video in your class, the Library can help you make a legal and practical choice.

• 🧠 Evaluate fair use or see if the TEACH Act applies
• 🔗 Embed library-licensed database content or use stable permalinks
• 📄 Submit a request for streaming rights or assistance

🛡️ DMCA & Safe Harbor Protections
Learn how the law protects NWACC—and your content—when we follow copyright best practices.

♿ Accessibility note: For guidance on captions, transcripts, or alternate formats, visit NWACC Accessibility Services or connect with the Disability Resource Center.