What about fair use - does it still apply to distance education?

Educators still may rely on fair use when making a determination as to whether they may use copyrighted works in the electronic classroom. The numerous conditions and restrictions in the TEACH Act can make it difficult to apply. In addition, as discussed above, the Act is limited to specific types of institutions and specific educational activities. If your use does not fall within the specific limitations of the TEACH Act (or if applying the Act seems just too unwieldy), use the fair use rules instead. (Click here for the "Fair Use FAQs".)