Various legal methods, such as copyright, trade secret, and patent law, protect proprietary rights in computer software. Users of this software must respect these rights or face infringement lawsuits. (TE)

Discussion of the effects of copyright on microcomputer software highlights the nature of copyright and situations in which the copying of copyrighted software may be permitted. Rights that a purchaser should insist upon when contracting for computer equipment are noted, i.e., right to test hardware and software prior to purchase. (EJS)

A discussion of informed consent by human subjects in experimentation presents background on the consent issue, including federal requirements; lists factors that may affect a subject's ability to understand the consent document; and offers suggestions for preparing consent forms to ensure the subject's better comprehension. (Author/MSE)

Discussion of highly publicized regulatory problems and legal settlements involving colleges and universities leads to a proposed five-step process for improving an institutional compliance structure. Steps include selecting the compliance officer, determining appropriate reporting relationships, setting up the committee/council structure,…

Addresses several differences between computer software and books that affect copyright-related issues. Discussion covers durability of the physical medium, dilemma of backup copies, software licensing agreements, integrity of honest customers, and policy suggestions for libraries that have or are considering microcomputer labs and are concerned…

Discusses copyright problems that arose when Texas A&M University Library installed microcomputers dedicated to computer-assisted instruction and research-related use. Highlights include microcomputer software questions, protection under copyright law, fair use, computers and copyrights, contracts and agreements, archival copies, vendor…

Two decades of affirmative action have not substantially altered the percentage of women and minorities in higher education faculty and professional ranks. Although continued attention to affirmative action is important, institutions should not let their guidelines channel and truncate the screening process so as to overlook stronger candidates.…

Colleges and universities are generally subject to new penalty excise taxes under the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) code on charitable and educational organizations. The law and proposed regulations are explained, with specific attention to how the rules apply to colleges and universities and how these institutions can best protect themselves…

Provides an overview of copyright regulations and examines issues of special concern for distance educators, including ambiguities in fair-use regulations. Notes rules concerning exclusive rights of copyrights holders, fair-use provisions, factors used to determine fair-use eligibility, and exemptions for "face-to-face" instruction. Provides…

A court decision that income from a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) souvenir program was not a "regularly carried on activity" and, therefore, was taxable as business income is discussed. Application of the same principles and standards to university income from advertising activities is considered, and recommendations…

Looks at the history of fair use of copyright-protected works, from concerns about photocopying to emergence of early guidelines, opposition, and continuing struggles to interpret the Copyright Act of 1976. Argues that no current fair use guidelines have the force of law; indeed, the law is a less complex measure than most guidelines. Recommends a…

A review of court litigation and federal regulatory action explores the prevalence of discrimination in higher education, and it is suggested that race-exclusive scholarships can be used and defended as a means of eliminating vestiges of discrimination that hinder the access of minorities to postsecondary educational opportunities. (Author/MSE)

Copyright issues are discussed in the context of expanding use of digital media for publication and dissemination of information. Issues reviewed include conflict of academic values and copyright, the challenge of copyright protection for digital works, and the applicable law. Several scenarios illustrate specific legal problems. (MSE)

Controversy over Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is reviewed, tracking the statue from enactment through recent judicial and legislative activity. Topics discussed include the effects of judicial interpretation of administrative regulations, public debate concerning the law's regulation and enforcement, rise in special interest groups…

Argues that in light of recent legal actions, colleges and universities would be wise to review their use of racial preferences in awarding financial aid. Federal and state legislation, court litigation, and federal regulations are reviewed, and arguments for and against minority scholarships are outlined. Ways in which institutions can justify…