UALR's Intellectual Property Policy - Intro
TECMs and You - FAQs
TECM Intellectual Property Policy Summary
Category I: Totally Faculty or Staff GeneratedTECM Intellectual Property Review Procedures
Category II: Minimal University Resources
Category III: Substantial University Resources
Category IV: Work Made for Hire
Category V: Not Applicable
In brief, the TECM Policy assumes that the intellectual property rights for any Tech Enhanced Course Materials (TECM) resides with the faculty member unless an agreement has been signed indicating otherwise. Any questions can be directed to the current Chair of the Faculty Senate Academic Computer and Technology Committee.
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.