Lesson+Three

In this lesson, you will learn about the issues of digital copyright and plagiarism, become aware of appropriate online etiquette, and understand the consequences of cyberbullying.
 * Lesson 3 - Ethics and Etiquette **

**Part 1 - Digital Copyright and Plagiarism**

Copyright is a way to protect those who create content from having their work used without their permission. If you write a book, create a work of art, record a new song or film the next video blockbuster, copyright is there to make sure you receive credit for your creation.
 * What is copyright?**

The US Copyright office has created an animated video that explains copyright [|here].

The simple answer is yes. Even if you don't see the little **©** symbol on something, you still have to assume that it is protected by copyright law.
 * Is everything copyrighted?**

Not necessarily. You can still use portions of copyrighted material for educational purposes if you follow some simple guidelines. The general guidelines are [|listed on our library site] along with resources for finding copyright-friendly pictures. However, if you want to publish something on the web or in another format that includes copyrighted material, you should contact the author and ask for written permission.
 * Does that mean that I can't use stuff that's copyrighted in my school work?**

There are also two other options when looking for materials for school projects: Plagiarism is the act of passing off someone else's work as your own. Whenever you write a report or complete a writing assignment, you must give credit for any sources you use. Not doing so can have academic consequences including receiving a failing grade on the assigment.
 * 1) Use items that are in the public domain. Many materials created by the US government are free from copyright.
 * 2) Use items from Creative Commons. Creative Commons is a form of copyright that makes it easy to use materials as long as a few simple rules are followed such as giving credit to the author. You can learn more from the [|Creative Commons website].
 * What is plagiarism?**


 * Part 2 - Online Etiquette **

Whenever you work and communicate online, there are some basic rules you should follow: > If you send an email or post a message in anger, it could come back to haunt you later. The same goes for pictures and videos you post online. Even when something is deleted from a page, it may still be out there waiting to be found when you least expect it. > > Don't pass along emails that contain hoaxes, or send messages to the entire student body. The same goes for sending large videos or attachments in an email message. It wastes everyone's time when they have to wade through extra information to get to the important stuff. > > Be careful about the language you use as well as the information you pass along about others. Sending messages that could be seen as threatening may result in disciplinary action. > > Unless the message you're sending is informal (such as a text message to a friend), you should use correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. You shouldn't WRITE IN ALL CAPS! (It's considered shouting) > > Don't use technology to pass along rumors or share personal information about someone without their permission. The same goes for posting names and photos of others.
 * 1) **Think before you send.**
 * 1) **Respect the time and bandwidth of others.**
 * 1) **Don't send messages that could be misinterpreted as threatening or hurtful.**
 * 1) **Follow the conventions of writing when sending formal emails or posting comments online.**
 * 1) **Respect others' right to privacy.**


 * Part 3 - CyberBullying **

Cyberbullying is the act of using technology to intimidate or spread untrue information about a person. Not only is it wrong, it's considered a major disciplinary offense and can even be considered a punishable crime. Cyberbullying will not be tolerated in any form.

If you are a victim of cyberbulling, let a teacher or another trusted adult know, so it can be addressed.

This[| video from NetSmartz] gives good advice on how to handle cyberbulling.


 * Your task:**

Your teacher will assign you one of the following videos to watch and discuss with a small group. Be prepared to explain which Internet etiquette rules were not followed and how the student could have made a better choice.

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