| The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge level of media directors at higher educational institutions concerning Sections 106, 107, and 110 of the Copyright Act of 1976 and the related guidelines for classroom materials, music, and off-air videotaping. This was achieved by mailing a questionnaire asking specific questions about the copyright law to over 400 media directors who are members of the Association of Educational Communications and Technology. In addition, follow-up interviews were done with a random sample of 10% of the respondents.; The instrument was a revised version of a questionnaire used in two previous studies. Two hundred responses were received and 18% of those who responded achieved the proficiency level of 75% correct responses. This was the highest percentage of proficiency recorded by any of the three studies. A Chi-square analysis was done to cross tabulate position title, highest degree earned, years of experience, and size of institution with proficiency. No significant findings were discovered in demographic analysis.; The subject interviews provided an insight into media director attitudes toward copyright. Many directors are concerned about copyright issues and have supplied suggestions to improve the dissemination of information. The uses of newer technologies like Internet listservs and teleconferences were suggested to provide updated information.; Media directors at higher educational institutions appear not to be familiar enough with the copyright law based on the criteria developed. Additional efforts are needed by professional organizations and educational institutions to make copyright a priority. If media directors are to properly take full advantage of the copyright law exemptions, they need to fully understand the copyright law and its intent. Only 18% of the current media directors in the country appear to be at this state. |
