32. May I play videos/movies/films in class?

You may play videos/films/movies in class under the following circumstances:

  • You may show a film or other cinematographic work in the classroom if the work is not an infringing copy, the work was obtained legally, and you did not circumvent a digital lock to access the work.
  • If you want to show a television news program in the classroom, instructors at educational institutions (or those acting under their authority) may, under the , copy television news programs or news commentaries and play them in class.
  • You may show a work available through the Internet (such as a YouTube video), except under the following circumstances:
    • The work is protected by digital locks preventing their performance.
    • A clearly visible notice prohibiting educational use is posted on the website or on the work itself.
    • You have reason to believe that the work available on the Internet is in violation of the copyright owner’s rights.

If you want to show a video in class and need assistance in obtaining video programming, please send an email to copyright@uwaterloo.ca for more information.

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