Clearance of Rights: what is it? Why is it Important?

For OERs, the clearance of third-party rights for the use of works protected by copyright and other related rights, can often be a complex and time-consuming exercise. Nevertheless, it is essential to get such clearance before you start using the material and/or let others use the material as you might be infringing copyright if you or your users perform any restricted act without permission. It is important to note that some, if not many, of the resources that you are likely to want to use will be compiled from a variety of materials with different copyright holders. In these circumstances, each part will need to be considered separately in terms of right clearance.  

More information about the types of rights that you may encounter can be found on the Legal Aspects of OER page.

(adapted from Korn 2011)