Discussion of reasons for and possible implications of the illegal copying of software focuses on software theft in higher education. Copy protected versus non-copy protected software is discussed, the technology of microcomputer systems is considered, and the impact of theft on software developers and vendors is examined. (LRW)

Noting a recent increase in the number of cases of computer crime and computer piracy, this paper takes up the question, "How can understanding the social context of computing help us--as parents, educators, and members of government and industry--to educate young people to become morally responsible members of an electronic information…

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…

The purpose of this study was to determine the nature and extent of unauthorized copying of microcomputer software by university students. The sample consisted of 392 university students ranging in age from 18 to 35. A survey instrument administered to all students contained 20 Likert-type questions designed to gather data on students' behavior,…

Issues of copyright policy and software licensure at Drexel University that were developed during the introduction of a new microcomputing program are discussed. Channels for software distribution include: individual purchase of externally-produced software, distribution of internally-developed software, institutional licensure, and "read…

Developed to help library media personnel, administrators, and educators understand and work with the copyright law as it applies to videotape and microcomputer software, this handbook provides: (1) an overview of copyright, including rights granted to copyright holders and libraries and court interpretation of the copyright law; (2) suggestions…

Reports results of a survey of 293 colleges and universities that reveals a growing trend toward making computer software and hardware available to faculty and students, despite potential illicit copying software. The role of the academic library and copyright implications are discussed. Twenty-three references are cited. (EJS)

As college faculty and students become increasingly sophisticated in the use of microcomputers, academic libraries must resolve common issues involved with the decision to add data disks to their collections, including selection policy, hardware and supplies, acquisition and cataloging, location, staffing, level of service, circulation, and…

The widespread introduction of microcomputers in higher education has had an impact on a variety of issues within the university community. One of the most important issues has to do with what constitutes intellectual property and who owns this property. Most universities have established a patent policy as there have long been financial rewards…

Outlines procedures for developing a microcomputer laboratory for use by students in an academic organization, based on experiences at Niagara University. The four phases described include: (1) needs assessment; (2) establishment, including software and hardware selection and physical facilities; (3) operation, including staffing, maintenance,…

Many colleges have begun to respond to vendors' concerns about software use (and abuse). Many have written policies on computer access and unauthorized software duplication, and policies on illegal copying and unauthorized computer access. The EDUCOM Code seeks to promote self-regulation. (MLW)

Two papers describe the roles of the Software Development Group (SDG) and the Software Review Center (SRC) at Drexel University. The first paper covers the primary role of the SDG, which is designed to assist Drexel faculty with the technical design and programming of courseware for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer; the relationship of the SDG…

Based on online searching experiences on microcomputer at a small liberal arts college, this article outlines for the novice advantages and disadvantages of micro-searching, legal implications, future trends, and factors to consider in selecting hardware and software. A 16-item bibliography arranged in order of usefulness and 10 references are…

Discusses issues related to the idea of a virtual library, or electronic library, in an academic setting. Topics discussed include access to academic libraries via personal computers; online catalogs; wide area networks, such as Internet, and their impact on library and computer center services; administrative issues; human and technological…

Outlines design and management factors to be considered when developing a microcomputer lab for an instructional media center (IMC). Highlights include environmental considerations, including spatial arrangements, furniture, power requirements, temperature control, and lighting; software and hardware acquisition; and administrative considerations,…