Laws of Communication

• How can one refrain from violating FERPA guidelines in online communication?
• What methods could be employed to verify that copyright is not being violated?
• Does copyright require that all work, images, words, and graphics must be original?

FERPA, or  Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

Basic Guidelines for FERPA:

• DO NOT share grades in emails unless specified by administration. Example: Sarah Smith has a 74% in class. She needs to continue to complete her work in a timely manner.
• DO request a phone call with a parent to discuss the numerical grade.
• DO NOT share information about student with anyone other than the parent/guardian.
• DO indicate to third parties to contact the parents of such student in regard to progress.
• DO have the right as parents and students to ask for educational records.

Copyright items are protected under the law.  The best way to avoid avoid abusing these privileges is to simply ask for permission.  Also, don't email or share information without permission.  When you are in doubt, simply ask..  Copyright does not require that all work must be original, particularly artwork.