Live-Streaming Online Education: Attitude Of Students Toward Copyright Infringement Of Digital Educational Materials

Abstract

Over 117 million students remain out of the classroom due to the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the shift to online education. Live-streaming has become a key method, offering synchronous learning similar to traditional classrooms. However, this digital transition increases the risk of unauthorized use of educational materials. This research examines these vulnerabilities, students' attitudes towards plagiarism, and the motivations behind such behavior. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from Qilu Normal University students reveal that scholarly articles and theses are particularly at risk, driven by convenience, content value, and a lack of copyright awareness. Many students wrongly justify plagiarism as fair use, highlighting a critical gap in understanding copyright laws. The study calls for educational institutions to adopt stronger strategies, including advanced plagiarism detection, educational programs on copyright, and clearer referencing guidelines. These measures aim to protect intellectual property and foster academic integrity in the digital learning environment. The findings are essential for policymakers, educators, and researchers addressing plagiarism in online education.