Introduction
In October 2001, the UA System Board passed Policy 210.2 in response
to concerns about the development of tech-enhanced course materials
(TECMs) for distance learning. The Policy defines "distance learning"
as "...two-way communication between a teacher and student separated
by a geographical distance or time using technology for the purpose
of facilitating and supporting the education process." They then
define "tech-enhanced course material" (TECM) as "...materials
utilizing electronic transmissions to accomplish such an activity."
The development of quality TECMs were seen by the Board as an
important part of quality distance education in Arkansas, but
it was not clear how existing policies concerning copyright and
patents applied. It was recognized that the production of quality
TECMs would involve the investment by the university of considerable
resources. In the Preamble to Policy 210.2, the UA Board states
that: "The objective of this policy is to protect the copyright
rights of both the faculty member and the University in TECM and
to encourage the offering of quality distance learning programs."
They go on to state that "...it is important to address the issues
raised by the creation, use and distribution of various forms
of TECM and clarify the rights and responsibilities of each of
the parties involved."
UA System Board Policy 210.2 was the product of this attempt
to clarify the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved
in the development of TECMs. Individual campuses were then given
the responsibility to apply the Policy to their individual situations.
How this policy would apply to UALR was the subject of much review
and discussion by several faculty and administrative groups. The
UALR Faculty Senate adopted the final version during its April
2002, meeting. Chancellor Hathaway approved his policy in May
2002, and it was forwarded to the UA System Office.
In brief, the policy assumes that the intellectual property rights
for any TECM resides with the faculty member unless an agreement
has been signed indicating otherwise. Any questions can be directed
to Linda Musun, AVCAA/Technology & Instructional Support, in the
Provost's Office or to the current Chair of the Faculty Senate
Academic Computer and Technology Committee.
Fac-Tech Resources