Copyright and licences online — Technology, 11–13 years
Finding a picture, song or video online does not automatically give permission to reuse it. Copyright and licences show what creators allow other people to do.
The idea
Copyright normally gives the creator of an original picture, song, video or text control over copying and sharing it. A licence is the creator’s stated permission, with conditions such as giving credit or not using the work commercially. Different licences allow different actions.
Why it was needed
Making a song, illustration or film takes time, skill and choices. Copyright gives creators a way to decide how their work is used and, in some cases, to earn from it. Licences help people share work clearly instead of guessing whether copying is fair or allowed.
A worked example
You want a photo for a class website. First, find a photo whose licence allows reuse, such as a suitable Creative Commons licence. Next, read its conditions; if it says CC BY, copy the required credit, including the creator and source. Finally, place that credit beside the photo and keep a note of the licence.
The common trap
A very common thought is: “It was online, so it is free to copy.” Online usually means easy to view, not free to reuse. The mistake makes sense because websites often hide the ownership and licence information, but copying, editing or reposting can still need permission or credit.
Where it appears
This matters when you choose music for a video, images for a presentation or clips for a poster. It also matters when you publish your own drawings, photos or code: you can choose whether and how others may use them. Checking the licence protects creators and helps you share responsibly.
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