Outline on Copyright deal crucial for students

Thesis statement: the Carleton University and the University of Otawa have not decided whether to sign the new copyright agreement or not.

Critics think it would mark a step backwards.

Carleton and the University of Ottawa are not the only ones making decisions about the deal.

York University, the University of British Columbia and the UBC have opted out of the deal, as have sever-al smaller schools.

≠ Five other schools had signed agreements with Access Copyright, including the University of Toronto.

Paul Davidson express it is good to sign it.

On the other hand, Geist thinks Paul is letting all the responsibility to students.

Thesis statement: Universities have until the end of the month to decide whether to reach an agreement with Access Copyright or not.

Both universities ponder the deal, which was presented during a strike between the AUCC and the non-profit licensor Access Copyright.

Deal:1. Authors paid fairly for their textes.
2. Universities protected of costly infringement lawsuits.

Critics: 1. If it is rejected the legal consequences are low.
2. It is not fair that students pay for rights that are covered.

Drastic changes to Canada's Copyright Act.

Michael Geist's opinion.

Comparison between the old agreement and the new model licence.

Disadvantages of the deal.

Contrast: students would be protected for posting a hyperlink to a digit-al copy.

Shifts in the digital landscape have changed how material is accessed and used on campuses.

"Fair dealing"

Carleton adopted a new policy of "fair dealing"

Carleton's good job with access to copyright could change.

University President Roseann Runte says the school has not make a decision yet, but it has legal advice.