Issues in Internet Law?

This past week I presented at the NYSCATE Conference in Rochester New York on the topic of "Issues in Internet Law for Educators".  My session was at the end of a long day, and I truly expected to see just a few attend.  Not so!  The room was filled with many teachers, administrators and tech folks eager to discuss the many issues which arise for educators in light of the use of new tech tools and  the web in teaching. We talked also about the defamation and cyber bullying issues resulting from the MySpace popularity and ease for many to become "publishers".  Teachers have always been targets for those who may be unhappy, but the Internet has created a much wider audience!  The Communications Decency Act protects the online service provider, and as a result, many think that it is ok to defame simply because there is a place to do so on the web!  Absolutely not!    We must be careful and thoughtful when we write on the Internet.  Once we say something online, it is there forever!  Cyber bullying is being prosecuted more aggressively.  We also discussed how the Internet has transformed "Fair Use" for teachers.  Do you know where your classroom is?   We must be careful when we post things online as to make sure we have not used something which is copyright protected without permission.  There are many great sources of music, pictures, and similar content which can be used without infringing others rights.  Let’s take a few minutes when we create online and make sure what we are using is ok! If you are interested in some Legal bloggers to follow more issues like this, here's a link to a few! http://www.criminaljusticeusa.com/blog/2008/top-50-internet-digital-law-blogs/