Can I use my personal account to stream Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO Go, or Hulu content in the classroom?
Answer
No, unfortunately the terms of services for these streaming platforms prohibits public display, which would include classrooms. Using your personal account to stream content in the classroom would violate the terms of service.
Netflix does allow a small number of their documentaries to be streamed for educational use. You can find more information at: https://help.netflix.com/en/node/57695
You may ask students to view content on streaming platforms using their own accounts without violating the terms of service.
As of this time, there are no Library subscriptions available from any of these content providers. The library does provide streaming video through our Films on Demand database. If you are interested in learning more about your streaming options, please contact us.
More Details:
• According to copyright, you can show a movie in a classroom without obtaining permission under the exemptions laid out in Section 110 of the Copyright Code.
• However, since you essentially sign a contract when agree to a streaming services terms of service, the restrictions laid out in those terms supersede any exceptions that exist in the copyright code.
• You should not use your personal streaming account to show content in a classroom, as you would be liable for any consequences that would come from breaking your terms of service.
• As of June 2019, I know of no cases where a teacher/professor was sued/warned/blocked for using their personal account to stream content in a classroom setting.